An Oscar snub and an inspiring American film

Rating: 9/10 (18 July 2008)

"Into the Wild" is one of the best films I have ever seen that is 95% without addressing any kind of human sin or vice. Almost no one wrongs anyone or indulges in anything of moral consequence: this is a film about man vs. self and of course man vs. nature. It is a coming- of-age story and then some; it is an adventure that explores the American countryside as well as the human soul. Sean Penn has rarely written or taken the director's chair in his career and it's clear to see why he took a seat with this project: it's a truly inspiring film.
"Into the Wild" is based on a Jon Krakauer book that catalogues the true story of Chris McCandless (Emile Hirsch), who after graduating Emory decides to rid himself of his family and all of his worldly possessions, call himself Alexander Supertramp, and travel the country with hopes of living out in Alaska. The film takes a narrative and literary structure that redefines the phrase "adapted from a novel." There are actual chapters and the scenes really do feel like chapters the way they are split by very verbose narrative from Chris' sister Carine (Jena Malone). It's a terrific style that Penn has created and rather essential for understanding the film's ideas.
McCandless' story is an empowering one: It would seem hard to screw up. The trick, however, is keeping it interesting (especially at almost 2.5 hours long). The way that Penn has it jump from McCandless when he finally is in Alaska to the story of how he gets there helps that along. Penn also uses some really cool techniques and though-provoking shots that carry deeper meaning in addition to being stylistically pleasing. While "Wild" does drag at times, the great ensemble cast helps it change pace. The only regret I have with the film is that despite how long it is, the supporting characters don't get enough time to develop. That and the overall tempo are the only things keeping this from a 10/10 in my eyes.
Hirsch does a very good job of capturing the free spirit of McCandless and getting across the values and reasoning for why he did what he did. It's more so Penn's script that slowly kind of reveals this logic, but Hirsch will definitely have a terrific career doing dramas, no question. Supporting actors Catherine Keener, Vince Vaughn and Hal Holbrook are also very good (Holbrook's last scene is one of the more touching moments in the film) though it would have been nicer to have seen more of them.
Though that's sort of the point of the film in a way. McCandless abandons everything for the sake of living free and dissolving himself of the fabrications of society (particularly money). He is completely driven in this regard that it makes him ignorant of the way he touched the lives of those he met and most importantly, how they truly meant something to him.
This is a film that will make you take a long hard look at the way you live and will likely unearth a deeper appreciation of life's simplest gifts that get lost in the hustle and bustle of society and its fascination with material possession. The only person who wouldn't get that from this film is one who has a profound hate for Emerson and Thoreau. This is just a great movie and best of all, it is one that is incredibly positive: now that's a Hollywood rarity.