There was a story I heard in the course of a conversation that reminded me of the sentimental favorite Beaches (1988, USA), directed by Garry Marshall, sister of Penny (Penny directed the Tom Hanks favorite Big the same year).

The person who told me the story had a strong liking to see the movie because of the theme song by Bette Midler, a song which was a hit.

I think many people were persuaded to see the film because of that indelible, beautiful song, The Wind beneath my Wings. But although the film was watched and kind-of liked, the song was more memorable.

However, though Beaches isn’t perfect, it is still a timeless story that harks back to that story I was told.

The story that was shared with me started with a problem, as most stories do. What would one do when a close friend is ill and needs support?

Lucy had a condition that would affect her for life, but supporting her may be leaving behind a promising tennis career. However, if you are true friends, then that wouldn’t matter.

That reminded me of Beaches, when Hillary (Barbara Hershey) is taken a back in life with an illness. She is not left alone. C.C. Bloom (Bette Midler) looks after her like a devoted magnet.

Their friendship started at a beach. The beach takes on the significance of new beginnings at this early stage in their friendship.

The open, wide horizon seemed to symbolize hope for a budding friendship, as if nothing should go wrong.

It becomes the kind of friendship that is taken through the years. These friendships may be mysteries, because they just click and work the right way.  They are as beautiful as the ocean.

When Hillary gets sick, C.C. and Hillary go back to the beach. Despite Hillary being sick, being there is the life that a sick person needs for consolation and comfort.

This time the beach signifies tranquility and sanctuary. Something good is there, and there is a promise of life instead of death despite being there signifying endings.

Back to my story and Lucy got the help she needed from a friend who sacrificed a tennis career for her. She dedicated herself to her friend. They stayed friends, forever.

Friendships like those never end. And when they are at the movies, they stay in the memory of the moviegoer for as long as they live.