The Tree Of Life...
Since the moment I saw the trailer for this film I have wanted to see it. With Terrance Malick directing it, and it starring Brad Pitt and Sean Penn, how could you not? After hearing it was applauded and boo'd at The Cannes Film Festival, yet still won The PALME D'OR, you could say I was intrigued to view this film. But as time passed, I saw myself shying away from it, more and more. Thankfully the other week I saw that it was finally released to DVD and Blu Ray. So yesterday, I finally viewed the much anticipated Tree Of Life. Now I had heard that it was either you loved the film, or simply hated it.
Now it seemed at first that it knew it was to good for its own good, trying to explain basically the existence of earth and life upon it, all over one family in the 1950's. But as the film continues, it starts to shape into a film about everything. Family, love, loss, hate, life, and so much more. To say this film focuses on a broken family in the 1950's, is like saying McDonald's is good for you sometimes...it just isn't. Although the film has its main focus on the family, in particular Jack (played by an adult Sean Penn) and the relationship he has with his father, but it also provides so much more...including dinosaurs.
Now, like I said before, the film stars Brad Pitt, and Sean Penn, but honestly Sean Penn is barely in the film, and I wish he was utilized more. If there was one major complaint about this film, it would be the lack of use of Sean Penn. Brad Pitt does an outstanding job as Jack's forceful father, and I can see him at least getting nominated for an Academy Award. Jessica Chastain also stars in this film, and provides an overwhelming performance. She was breathtaking in this film, and it's a shame if she gets overlooked. But this film belonged to Hunter McCracken, who plays the younger version of Jack. His performance was superb, I have never seen a young actor, who I have never heard of, take on such a role, and leave me in tears. Yes I said it, The Tree Of Life will question almost everything you believe in. Most of the times I choked up, the scenes didn't even have dialog in them, just the movement and elaborate use of sound, was truly incredible.
The "soundtrack", (I use quotations because I find that to be a very underwhelming statement for the music in this film)was simply beautiful. I usually do not use these types of words to describe a film, but I honestly do not know any other way. Terrence Malick really took a leap of faith with this film, and I am so happy he did, as I personally think he has made one of the most important films not only in the past decade, but ever.
The Tree Of Life will leave some in tears (like it did to me), and will surely leave others frustrated with the lack of storytelling. But none can deny the breathtaking visuals in this film. I truly believe Terrence Malick has created a film that will cement its name in history.
After just viewing it last night, I honestly want to view the film again, that is how mesmerizing it is. Although I do not understand the whole film, as I don't think we are suppose to, every second of the film meant something, and that is why I loved it so much. Although I looked for answers throughout the film, it gave none, the ending of the film was true genius, the ending itself explained nothing, but the way it was portrayed was truly amazing.
My Rating for The Tree Of Life is
100%
Since the moment I saw the trailer for this film I have wanted to see it. With Terrance Malick directing it, and it starring Brad Pitt and Sean Penn, how could you not? After hearing it was applauded and boo'd at The Cannes Film Festival, yet still won The PALME D'OR, you could say I was intrigued to view this film. But as time passed, I saw myself shying away from it, more and more. Thankfully the other week I saw that it was finally released to DVD and Blu Ray. So yesterday, I finally viewed the much anticipated Tree Of Life. Now I had heard that it was either you loved the film, or simply hated it.
Now it seemed at first that it knew it was to good for its own good, trying to explain basically the existence of earth and life upon it, all over one family in the 1950's. But as the film continues, it starts to shape into a film about everything. Family, love, loss, hate, life, and so much more. To say this film focuses on a broken family in the 1950's, is like saying McDonald's is good for you sometimes...it just isn't. Although the film has its main focus on the family, in particular Jack (played by an adult Sean Penn) and the relationship he has with his father, but it also provides so much more...including dinosaurs.
Now, like I said before, the film stars Brad Pitt, and Sean Penn, but honestly Sean Penn is barely in the film, and I wish he was utilized more. If there was one major complaint about this film, it would be the lack of use of Sean Penn. Brad Pitt does an outstanding job as Jack's forceful father, and I can see him at least getting nominated for an Academy Award. Jessica Chastain also stars in this film, and provides an overwhelming performance. She was breathtaking in this film, and it's a shame if she gets overlooked. But this film belonged to Hunter McCracken, who plays the younger version of Jack. His performance was superb, I have never seen a young actor, who I have never heard of, take on such a role, and leave me in tears. Yes I said it, The Tree Of Life will question almost everything you believe in. Most of the times I choked up, the scenes didn't even have dialog in them, just the movement and elaborate use of sound, was truly incredible.
The "soundtrack", (I use quotations because I find that to be a very underwhelming statement for the music in this film)was simply beautiful. I usually do not use these types of words to describe a film, but I honestly do not know any other way. Terrence Malick really took a leap of faith with this film, and I am so happy he did, as I personally think he has made one of the most important films not only in the past decade, but ever.
The Tree Of Life will leave some in tears (like it did to me), and will surely leave others frustrated with the lack of storytelling. But none can deny the breathtaking visuals in this film. I truly believe Terrence Malick has created a film that will cement its name in history.
After just viewing it last night, I honestly want to view the film again, that is how mesmerizing it is. Although I do not understand the whole film, as I don't think we are suppose to, every second of the film meant something, and that is why I loved it so much. Although I looked for answers throughout the film, it gave none, the ending of the film was true genius, the ending itself explained nothing, but the way it was portrayed was truly amazing.
My Rating for The Tree Of Life is
100%
Terrific review! Loved your last paragraphs. I really cannot wait to see this film, I hope I enjoy it as many have.
ReplyDeleteNice job. Hopefully this is out on DVD soon in the UK. I'll watch it then.
ReplyDeleteThanks guys!
ReplyDelete