Kramer vs. Kramer: Pause at 55 minutes and 42 seconds and get a good look at Meryl Streep’s face

When we (re)discover a feature film and are a bit observant, there are many reasons to use the “pause” button on our remote control. If the movie belongs to a famous pop culture saga or if it was made by the Disney studio after the 80s, we often stop to find winks or easter eggs.

But for some movie classics that are a little older or a little less in reference, the most attentive viewers will be able to find other details.

For example, the false connections often made by our friends Michel and Michel from Faux Raccord, but also sometimes some temporary and involuntary expressions on the faces of the actors: the maddened laughter cannot be contained, as in Les Bronzés sont du ski. A smile accomplice, or even an irreparable explosion.

The start of Meryl Streep

It’s the latter scenario that plays out for Meryl Streep in a particularly tense sequence in Kramer vs. Kramer, Robert Benton’s moving drama, which aired tonight on Arte.

Recall that in this feature film, winner of 5 Oscars (including two for the main actor), Ted Kramer finds himself raising his son alone after the departure of Bill’s wife Joanna, angry with Ted’s professional priorities.

A completely authentic reaction

When Joanna returns from California and decides to adopt her son, a meeting between husband and wife at a restaurant table erupts. The interview ends with Ted leaving in a hurry, angry after hearing what Joanna told him. He gets up from the table and suddenly throws the wine glass against the wall.

It is at this point, 55 minutes and 42 seconds into the film, that I suggest you pay special attention to the reaction of Meryl Streep, who jumps after Dustin Hoffman’s frantic movement.

Know that the surprise and shock on his face is absolutely not fake, simply because his partner improvised his gesture. Therefore, Meryl Streep’s surprise at this point in the film is completely authentic.

(Re)discover the ‘Kramer vs. Kramer’ trailer…