Feeling Uninspired? Try Watching ‘Local Hero.’

When it comes to films, I’m more interested in aesthetics than plot. That is why I’m recommending the 1983 film “Local Hero,” despite not really knowing the plot. Admittedly, I’ve only seen the film a handful of times, but I still count it as one of my favorite films. I turn to it when I’m feeling uninspired or listless. The filming took place on location in Scotland, and the atmosphere of the film is superb.

The Glaswegian Mark Knopfler wrote and produced the soundtrack, and I count the soundtrack as one of my favorite albums. I’ve listened to the soundtrack considerably more times than I’ve seen the film.

This soundtrack is Knopfler’s debut soundtrack album. Standout tracks include “Wild Theme” and “Going Home: Theme of the Local Hero.”

On a related note, I saw Knopfler perform in 2019 and took this video:

The security guard standing nearby blocked my first attempts at capturing a video, but was OK with me filming this one.

I don’t watch many films. Even as a child, I never had the attention span to sit through most films. However, “Local Hero” is a film I can watch because of its moody atmosphere and emphasis on realism as opposed to glossy special effects, which are a turnoff for me.

If you, dear reader, are feeling alone or vulnerable, please try watching this film. I know I will.