“Frequency” bends the rules of time travel without breaking them. Released in the summer of 2000, the film stars Dennis Quaid and Jim Caviezel. I first saw it at a drive-in theater with my then-girlfriend. I was enamored with the intricate story and deep emotional charges. The movie was good too.
The plot revolves around two distinct periods in time separated by 30 years. In 1969, Frank Sullivan (Quaid) is a New York City fireman and loving father and husband. In 1999, Frank’s son John (Caviezel) is a homicide detective. When John finds his dad’s old ham radio, he begins chatting with a mysterious person. It’s quickly revealed to be a figure from his past.
“Frequency” doesn’t get too wrapped up in the science of time travel. We get a quickly passing but acceptable explanation as the opening credits roll. The two time periods are very different, and linked together by the New York Mets and the neighborhood connection brought about by the 1969 World Series.
The film also manages to straddle several genres. The obvious science-fiction element is present. It also succeeds as a police drama with action and suspense. John is investigating the cold case files of a serial killer that preyed on young nurses in his Queens neighborhood. At its heart, “Frequency” is a father and son bonding film.
The actors are very good. Dennis Quaid and Jim Caviezel make a great pair as father and son. They emulate their respective professions; NYC cop and fireman, in a flawless style. The cast is completed with Elizabeth Mitchell playing Frank’s wife. A young but recognizable Michael Cera makes a cameo. One of my favorite actors, Andre Braugher, does what he does best – portray a cop. Character actor Shawn Doyle is a perfect fit in a nefarious role.
I love the concept and its creative plot structure. The use of radio waves for the source of communication is quite personal. We can believe that John still resides in the house he grew up in. Trauma from his past has left its mark on him in the present. He struggles with his emotions, and while he wants to be like his father, he’s far off the mark. It will give your heartstrings a tug. It’s interesting that the film was released in 2000. The year served as a middle point for to major events in the world. Y2K and 9/11. My beef is the run time of 118 minutes. This film could have vaulted itself into the upper echelon had it been trimmed 8-10 minutes.
“Frequency” is an excellent movie. The story is interesting and the characters are fun to watch. Don’t let the science-fiction element discourage you from checking it out.
