An Americana and a celebration of freedom like no other - simply stunning!

Rating: 9/10 (21 July 2009)

Simply stunning real-life account of college graduate who simply disowns and ditches the American society, lifestyle - and his parents - to make a life in the midwestern/Alaskan wilderness. Along his path he also encounters and affects a handful of diverse people in both profound and truthful ways...
A clearly victorious labor of love for director Penn, as it uses voice-over, appropriately themed songs and nature philosophy quotes (if a few too many) just as effectively as the beauty of nature's scenery itself to tell an Americana (and the fate of quite a man) like no other. An honest, heartfelt celebration of following a dream of freedom and simplicity - gaspingly well made - that resonates even deeper, of course, if you agree on its values and statements (like me). Rousseau smiles in his grave! Also astonishingly, effortlessly acted down the line with a fantastic Hirsch (who to me is an uncanny cross between Johnny Depp & River Phoenix!) in the lead; it wouldn't work without his performance. Give that man more big roles!
9 out of 10 from Ozjeppe.