Nomadland

⭐ 8.0/10

(Originally written by Tim)

This movie is about a woman who loses it all and reverts to living in her van, traveling across America to find community or herself or something. Honestly, for as beautiful a movie as this was, I can't say I really connected with it. The acting is great, the music is beautiful, the scenery unforgettable, but I had a hard time relating to the feelings of the protagonist.

I think there is a lot to be said here about America and capitilism and all sorts of stuff. Someone who is working for the richest corporation in the world but can't afford to live, Fern refuses to bend to the typical consumer life we are sold, refusing help along the way to grieve her losses in her own way. I think this is where I was lost, in that many people offer her community or a home but she continually chooses her own road. It is very possible I don't understand her own form of grief, but Jess called it self-destructiveness which might be part of it.

I do think Francis McDormand is amazing here, and she is in every shot. I think of her as a gruff no-nonsense woman, and in a role like this it would be easy to portray a lot of anger and hate. But the character is incredible kind and quick to smile, which constantly contradicts the situations she is in. Lots of depth here, and a standout performance, coming from someone who has never acted and has no idea what depth means.

A pretty bleak story, but a lot of beauty in this movie. I think I also liked this because it stars a lot of real looking people. No gorgeous movie stars here, making it feel very real. Check it out if you love driving down wide open roads through stunning scenery.