To Kill a Mockingbird

File this in the "classics I don't understand how they became classics" category. I don't get how this rambling, laconic movie became so beloved. So many pointless scenes with Jim, Scout, and the other kid I can't remember the name of, just being kids, that adds nothing to the narrative,. The way it is framed and filmed, feeling more like A Very Special Episode of a 50's sitcom than a movie. Gregory Peck being so reserved and monotone, he's almost human white noise. The saccharine score that distracts and interferes more than it adds. I'll give it credit for the unexpected ending (no, I've never read the book). I did not see Tom being found guilty, nor what happens after. It is shocking and bold, especially in light of when this movie is made, and makes the story -- that part of it, at any rate -- feel more true. But I also am annoyed that the movie is told through the POV of the kids all the way up to the trial, then the movie slams on the brakes and becomes a courtroom drama, then returns to the POV of the kids after the trial is over. It's sloppy storytelling, and that bugs me. I don't have much more to say on this one. It not only failed to connect with me, but failed to show me why it connects with anyone. I didn't find it outright bad, but I was consistently bored.