“Witness”: Classic thriller mixes romance, crime in Amish country

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“Witness,” the 1985 crime thriller, holds a special place in my heart. As a 19-year-old, I was initially skeptical of its premise – a cop hiding in Amish country. However, the characters quickly drew me in: the endearing Lukas Haas as a young boy who witnesses a murder, Kelly McGillis perfectly cast as a widow, and Harrison Ford as the compelling hero.

The story unfolds as these three find themselves immersed in the unfamiliar world of the Amish. Ford’s portrayal of John Book, a man forced to seek refuge and heal among them, is particularly powerful. The developing bond between Book and Rachel Lapp (McGillis) is beautifully paced, with a subtle sensuality that captivates the viewer.

Witness (1985) dir. Peter Weir
Harrison Ford plays a police investigator who goes under cover with an Amish community in order to protect a young boy who has witnessed a murder. Underrated thriller. #film #cinema #movies pic.twitter.com/34Nfv33sW7

— More Movies (@MoreMovies4U) May 25, 2021

What continues to impress me about “Witness” is its seamless blend of genres. It effortlessly combines romance, violence, and fish-out-of-water humor without ever feeling forced. Director Peter Weir’s attention to detail and ability to make ordinary moments cinematic is remarkable. Even scenes of the out-of-place Book working on a farm feel authentic, thanks to Ford’s understated heroism.

While the villain’s fate remains as intense and thrilling as ever, it’s the romantic conclusion that truly resonates. The parting of these two characters, each forever changed by their encounter, is deeply moving.

Movie of the Day: WITNESS

dir. Peter Weir (1985)
cast: Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis, Lukas Haas, Danny Glover
DOP: John Seale

When a young Amish boy is the sole witness to a murder, policeman John Book goes into hiding in Amish country to protect him until the trial. pic.twitter.com/EVDHV0EDzk

— anyalina joylie 🇵🇸🇺🇦 (@textbookvillain) February 21, 2021

In today’s world of CGI-heavy films and politically driven content, movies as well-crafted, personal, and respectful as “Witness” are rare. It harkens back to a time when filmmakers trusted audiences to follow complex narratives without excessive hand-holding.