Winter's Bone
Most of you looking at this have probably never heard of this movie released in June of 2010. Admittedly it has to win an award for worst name for a movie (even though it makes sense at the end of the film). I see lots of movies and the only actor I had seen before was a guy named John Hawkes. He was the grimy little guy in The Perfect Storm that smoked alot. The girl that plays the lead is Jennifer Lawrence. You may have never heard of her, but you will know her name one day (Royce's prediction).
The movie takes place in the back woods in the Ozark Mountains where many make their living by cooking drugs in small trailers. Ree (Lawrence) is a 17 year old girl trying her best to take care of her younger brother and sister and her mother who has gone off the deep end. Mom never speaks- they never say why. Dad is a total loser who has been arrested for drugs. To bail himself out he puts up the family house and property. If he does not show in court next week the family will be out in the cold literally. Ree makes it her duty to find him and convince him to show in court. The locals are not happy about this and even some that call themselves family make the Sopranos look like nice guys.
The thing that makes this movie above average is the acting. Which is funny since it's a bunch of no names and even several locals where the film was shot that was given parts. They captured the feel of this cold place very well.
This movie is not for everyone. It's on the rugged side and definitely brutal in parts. I found myself admiring what this girl would do for her family and looking forward to seeing Ms. Lawrence act again. She is coming out next summer in the new X-Men movie. I enjoyed this film.
" Which is funny since it's a bunch of no names and even several locals where the film was shot that was given parts."
ReplyDeleteOK, I know I'm being picky, but I have to rise in defense of no-name actors. You would be surprised at the vast numbers of talented actors who are unknown. Most community theater productions I see usually have at least one actor who could turn pro but don't because they actually have to make a living.
You're not turning "art house" on me, are you Royce?
It's always good to hear from the local actor...: >
ReplyDeleteIt wouldn't surprise me to find one or two good actors in this bunch but for a low budget movie it didn't feel low budget to me. The local actors definitely got the feel of the movie.
Not trying to make this movie out as best ever. I rented with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised.
Not turning Art House yet John. Not until you finally go pro.
Not for everyone is right. Kinda dark and little rough for my tastes. But I ended up watching the whole thing. Usually when those kind of movies get started I leave pretty quick. I just couldn't leave with this one, had to see the end.
ReplyDeleteCassie