Without a doubt, one of the more realistically shocking and provocative films I have ever seen. One of the most important "lost" independent films ever. Definitely ranks in the top 5 best Canadian films ever.
I don't want to describe it too much, because it is best viewed with virgin eyes - no expectations.
The short summary is that a logging company has gone too far with its clear-cutting of the great Canadian woods, now subject to native Indian terror attacks against the loggers. A nebbish Toronto lawyer gets involved in the case, and meets a mysterious Indian (the always wonderful and most talented Graham Greene). What follows is a harrowing and devastating journey not only into the ancient woods of Canada, but into the darkest recesses of the human soul. Anger, rage, revenge, violence, redemption, tolerance, and ECOLOGY - all words to describe the feelings and attitudes of this shocking film. A definite MUST SEE! - unfortunately though, this is one of the rarest films made in the last 20 years. Never shown on TV, and pretty much unavailable on VHS (forget DVD, at least as far as I know it was never released on disc). Best chance is to pick it up in Canada at an art-house vid store. If you do ever see the box, don't miss the chance, rent it! Clearcut is proof that cinema is and always should be, the leading art form of our society. Films like this challenge, provoke, and serve as catharses. They have a purpose, and it is more than just to entertain. I was 16 when I saw it, and it changed my view of the world, in a positive way. It made me aware of issues while helping me explore the human psyche. Probably one of the few R rated films I would recommend that young people view (supervised of course) - it might actually enlighten them on issues of violence and rage in society.
WATCH CLEARCUT BY ALL MEANS!
SUPPORT Canadian CINEMA!! It should be so much better and richer than what it is - what is wrong with Canucks? Egoyan, Arcand, Jewison and Cronenberg cannot be the only popular cinema talents in one of the greatest countries on earth?!
