Water for Elephants (2:01) 2011

No, I didn't read the book and loved the movie. My friend Judy did read the book of the same name and also loved the movie. It is a well acted film with a storyline that moves at a good pace. Hal Holbrook is Jacob as an early man. He tells the story of the Benzini Brothers Circus in 1931 in a flashback. Jacob, while taking his final exams at Cornell to become a veterinarian, is interrupted to be told that his parents have been killed in a car accident. When he discovers his father had mortgaged everything to finance his education, Jacob leaves town and ends up hopping a circus train. Jacob takes a job with the circus taking care of the animals. He is befriended by August, the owner, and his wife Marlena, the star attraction. August, while at times charming, is also ruthless. He is cruel to the animals and heartless in many of his dealings with his employees. Naturally, Jacob falls for Marlena and her feelings are returned. When August realizes he is in danger of losing Marlena, Jacob is fired and is going to be throw off the train. Will Marlena follow her true love or stay with the man who has given her financial stability? This is a good period piece which also deals with life in the circus. I highly recommend it.