a film that haunts you.

Rating: 7/10 (28 April 2006)

Terrence Malick returns after what seems like forever since 'the Thin red line' with 'The New World'. Based on the story of john smith (that's Pocahontas Disney fans). It tells the story about when the explorers of old travelled to America for the first time and clashed with the natives. Progress turns people ugly and soon the uncharted and unaffected locals become trampled in mans pursuit of greed. Following on from the concepts that Malick started to explore in red line this isn't so much a film but more a visual poem. What I at first thought was a pointless voice-over soon soothes the soul as it floats over the stunning visuals of the wilds of the untouched land. As the star-crossed lovers fight to keep the love between them a secret but alive the story ebbs and flows along at a pace that works like wind blowing through long grass. Everything here from the soundtrack to the poetic words layered over the colours of the world and its inhabitants creates a kind of dreamlike feel. With elements of the work of Andy Goldsworthy in the streams and logs, plants and rocks this film is just amazing to look at. Malick has a way of directing that seems to contain pauses and fill the film with space. Clocking in at two and a half hours you don't feel it at all as you sit in the cinema and let it wash over you. Another great film from a subtle but very talented director.