PLACES IN THE HEART from TRI-STAR pictures (1984). This was one of three "Farm" movies that came out that year. The other two were "Country" and "The River." All films focused on the plight of the American farm. It reflected the times when "Farms" were losing money and being foreclosed to local banks.
"Places" was set in the 1930's during the great depression. Royce Spalding is the sheriff who is accidentally shot and killed. He leaves behind a wife, Edna (Sally Field) and their two kids. The bank is going to foreclose on the Spalding farm. Edna decides to fight to save it.
Sally Field gives a good performance as the determined Edna. She actually resorts to picking cotton to sell and raise money. She never picked cotton in her life. It nearly kills her physically and spiritually. Plus, that tornado is terrifying.
"Places" was nominated for 7 Oscars including Best Picture and Sally won for Best Actress. Robert Benton won for Best Screenplay.
All three farm movies were considered modern "westerns." During the 1980's - Western films were considered "dead" with American movie audiences. They were still alive though. Hollywood studios created only teen, action, slasher and sequel movies.
"Places in the Heart" is on DVD and Blu-Ray. Check it out. All three farm movies are on YouTube for "Free" in other formats.
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