I recently rented the movie “The Hours.” It’s an older movie (it came out in 2002) based on the Pulitzer Prize Winning Novel by Michael Cunningham. The plot focuses on three women of different periods whose lives are interconnected by the novel ‘Mrs Dalloway,’ written by Virginia Wolfe. It stars Nichole Kidman (who won an academy award for her portrayal of Virginia Wolfe), Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, Ed Harris and Clair Danes among others. In all, it was nominated for nine Academy Awards.

As many know, Virgina Wolfe was an English writer who committed suicide at the age of 59. ‘Mrs. Dalloway’ was somewhat autobiographical in that the thoughts expressed by the lead character in the book were synonymous with the way Virginia felt when writing it, plagued by mental illness, depression and thoughts of suicide. I’d highly recommend it though the story is somber, and few will walk away feeling uplifted.

Having said all that, I was blown away by the dialogue in this movie. Writing convincing dialogue is difficult in any form, but the script created for this movie eclipses most produced today. Its ability to convey exactly what needs to be said in a way that’s true and natural and honest is nothing short of amazing. Take a look at this snippet taken directly from the script in which Virginia explains to her husband why the lead character in her book must die. I’ve read it more than twenty times, and I’m still in awe.

Leonard: Why does someone have to die?
Virginia: Leonard?
Leonard: In your book, you said someone had to die.
Virginia: Mm.
Leonard: Why?
[Virginia gazes at the fire thoughtfully.]
Leonard: Is that a stupid question?
Virginia: No.
Leonard: I imagine my question is stupid.
Virginia: Not at all.
Leonard: Well?
Virginia: Someone has to die in order that the rest of us should value life more. It’s contrast.
Leonard: And who will die? Tell me.
Virginia: The poet will die…the visionary.