I really have problems with philosophical belief systems that sacrifice one's life for a principle. Other than directly protecting a family member with one's life, I am of the belief that few other situations call for the extreme sacrifice of saying ta ta because it is the "right" thing to do. Joseph Conrad wrote that it was. I disagree. There are many ways to redeem yourself without sacrificing life and happiness. O'Toole is very good in the film, as is James Mason, who was a very versatile actor who could play heavies and heroes without missing a beat. A man commits a cowardly act and needs to redeem himself. He does with a heroic deed shortly thereafter. That should have been enough. As one mentioned in the film; the difference between a hero and a coward is paper thin. We have all been both at one point in our lives, and some days you win, and other days you lose. There is no point in becoming extreme in either behavior.
Review of Lord Jim
