By Andrea K. Hammer
Have the horrific events of the last month prompted thoughts about escaping to a remote location? Along with moments of solace, the movie Land will deliver another harsh reality check about the challenges of living in a distant place like Alaska.
Riveting, Unscripted Scenes
As the beyond-distraught Edee who has suffered unfathomable trauma, Robin Wright (actress and director in this drama) captures the broken spirit of a woman who needs to heal in the isolation of Alaska. Conveying Edee’s determination to live off the land and cut all ties to civilization, she quickly discovers the difficulty of finding enough food and spirals into a deeper abyss. In many riveting, unscripted scenes, Robin Wright reveals the inner strength of her character to literally get up off the floor and reconnect with life.
Palpable and Pure Connection
With compassion and understated charm, Demian Bichir shapes Miguel as an undeniable life line. After discovering Edee withering in her cabin, he nurses her back to health physically and emotionally. As two souls who have experienced similarly profound losses, the actors create a palpable connection in the purest sense of true understanding and mutual support.
Cinematic Tenderness and Brilliance
Despite the difficulties of watching the hunting scenes in this drama–or looking away until they passed–the movie Land is memorable and watch worthy on multiple levels. Although heart wrenching, images of Edee walking miles to find Miguel (Demian Bichir) and their final conversation remain a testament to the actors’ extraordinary talents in a scene of cinematic tenderness and brilliance.
