Land

For a drama like this there was some nice mystery and tension too. The landscape and cinematography was amazing. The simple yet effective cast was convincing. I got a bit teary eyed.

This is a minimalistic film, but it offers a lot. First, the scenery and cinematography are both stunning. Second, details of the harsh life are portrayed very well. Then, the journey of healing is beautifully portrayed. The characters are sympathetic, and they make you care about them. I think this is a very good film.

First of all, I want to say how good it was to see a newly released movie on the big screen. I missed "going" to the movies. This may very well prejudice this review. This was a beautiful movie, epic in landscape, quiet in thought, skillful in silent performance. Filmed in the Canadian Rockies (or as Robin Wright said, "the Alberta mountains"), the location is equally a character. It has garnered many film festival accolades and I've heard it described as Wright's greatest work. It definitely was her work. She produced, performed and directed it. It is a beautiful piece of film making. I give this film an 8 (beautiful) out of 10. {Drama}

LAND is a touching study of a woman steeped in grief, determined to leave life behind in the midst of a devastating happening. Robin Wright effectively directs from an angle of isolation, both of place and of mind. It's a solid directorial debut and a raw, emotional performance. A lot of moments and scenarios feel familiar, and while that hinders the overall experience, LAND is so beautifully shot with such deeply heartfelt performances that it earns a lot of respect by the end. The film's biggest achievement is the its second half, and the subtle way it works through grief and pain in restrained, tender moments.

Maybe it's a trend, maybe it's a passing phase, but simplistic stories about becoming one with the wild have been hard to ignore of late. From Chloe Zhao's 'Nomadland' to Robin Wright's 'Land,' following the stories of women who have tried to disappear into nature has made for intriguing subject matter.

In Wright's directorial debut we follow the journey of Edee, a middle-aged woman who escapes civilization as she copes with guilt that stems from a tragic personal loss. The film's low budget-ness helps give it an authentic feel, as the focus is on the Wyoming wilderness and the struggle Edee has not only with the elements, but with her inner demons. But it's not all doom and gloom - we get to witness a rebirth of sorts with her budding friendship with a local man (Demián Bichir), as well as a very important learning by film's end.

If 'Land' is an example of what Wright is capable of on both sides of the camera, we should expect much more to come.