Murphy’s movie law

In the middle of the screening of the Danish film “ Open Hearts ,” the story seems to take an abrupt turn. And then, to the surprise of everyone, the house lights come up and the movie stops.

A woman, whom we assume is the movie’s publicist, takes the stage. She explains that the person who put the film together screwed up and has spliced the reels together in the wrong order. She says that the director, Susanne Bier, wants to stop the screening. She tells us that we can all get coupons that will allow us to attend any other screening of our choice.

But we don’t want that. It’s too hard to get tickets as it is, and schedules are tight. Besides, we’re into the film. We’re enjoying it. We want to continue. We are vocal about our feelings. And it makes a difference.

The film continues. And, adults that we are, we are able to piece the story together. And when it is over, we applaud. Loudly. As I exit the theater, I stop by the director, whom I can see in the shadows. I thank her, and she smiles.

Wow, even at Sundance you can find a Hollywood ending.