by John Bizub
If there was one piece of 2020 that was missing in people’s lives, it was the thrill of witnessing tentpole blockbusters in a packed audience and hearing the news of box office numbers skyrocket after opening weekend. However, that did not stop independent filmmakers from releasing breakthrough projects that outshined some of the blockbusters released over the course of last year. And the question on everyone’s mind is, what will be nominated at the Academy Awards this year? If you have been paying attention to the festival circuit or any of the awards ceremonies, you would know that Chloe Zhao’s latest Nomadland has been the talk of the town. And now with it being released in theaters and on Hulu, it is finally about time for many to witness it.
The film stars Frances McDormand as Fern, a woman who goes on a journey throughout the American frontier after she has lost everything during the recent recession. I am keeping it light on the synopsis because it is best going into this film as clueless as possible in order to gain a better experience, like I did.
Nomadland is the most human film of the year and deserves all of the praise and excitement surrounding it. Zhao crafts such a melancholic and quiet work of art. She is blending both scripted storytelling, by telling the story of a woman who must overcome life’s obstacles and the people she encounters along the way, and non-scripted “real” storytelling as the people Fern discovers tell real stories.
Zhao works seamlessly with both actors and non-actors to create something real and authentic. McDormand, without a doubt, brings my favorite performance of the year. At times, she feels like she is a part of the film’s world and one with these people, rather than a stereotypical protagonist.
The cinematography is outstanding. If you are comfortable and safe enough to see this in a theater, I implore you to do so. This film has some of the most breathtaking shots I have seen all year, capturing all the landscapes and environments Fern comes across and Zhao makes us part of the journey too.
Nomadland‘s score, while sparse, is also beautiful. It is used very appropriately and never caught me off guard. The story is a slow burn. It takes its time for it to really get anywhere, but this film’s main focus is on character development rather than on story. The audience is right in Fern’s shoes and wants to be with her every step of the way.
Many will find Nomadland to be aimless or pretentious due to the film’s lack of any story developments. However, I disagree. It is a film focused on the journey and the people met along the way rather than going from Point A to Point B. It takes its time to make these characters feel like a part of the film’s world. And McDormand feels right at home with these people. If there is any movie to catch this awards season, please make it Nomadland.
GRADE: A