Set in a bleak Ozark autumn/winter, the only thing more unforgiving than the landscape are the people that inhabit it. Amidst the crushing poverty, a girl goes on an odyssey to find her father.
Jennifer Lawrence turns in a mesmerising performance as Ree, the emotional heart of the film. She imbues the character with a quiet focus that draws the viewer in and refuses to let go. This role has garnered plenty of Oscar buzz - fully deserved, imho.
The other central character - Ree's uncle, Teardrop, is the perfect counterpoint. Broodingly intense, capable of explosive violence, John Hawkes could easily have been overacted Teardrop into caricature territory, but again turns in a beautifully nuanced piece of work.
I loved this film so hard. It's a slow burn, magnificently shot/acted and a fantastic portrayal of both ends of the spectrum of human behaviour.
Slow-moving at times, but captivating nevertheless. Jennifer Lawrence was fantastic. I'm not as skeptical now about her being cast in The Hunger Games movie.
The behind the scenes feature of the making of this movie was also fascinating and highly recommended!
Its bleakness is just so wonderful. Every shot is with thought and I have to say on a $2m budget it is a masterpiece. Intriguing subject and expertly executed.
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