One of the most hauntingly beautiful movies I've seen in years.

Rating: 10/10 (11 February 2006)

I just got back from the New World. It moved to a discount theater where I live and I didn't want to miss it. Even with the small the children running around and the old couple behind me who kept talking, I was completely sucked into the movie.
The scene opens with ships arriving in Virginia, 1607. You see the sailors stare out at the wilderness, fascinated by its untamed beauty. You see "The Naturals" or Native Americans watch the ships with fear and curiosity. No words are spoken, but the pictures tell more that anyone could ever describe.
The use of images and the cinematography are breathtaking. Mixed in with a haunting score by James Howard and you get one of the most beautiful, thought provoking films this year.
People in the theater grew restless or left because some would find this movie slow. The problem is that people aren't used to just images and music in a movie. They want action thrown into their face throughout the whole film. If you come to "The New World" expecting constant action and dialogue, then you might as well not go at all.
It's not a story of action and the violent clash between the English and the Native Americans. It's a story of exploration, love, and the birth of a new world.
For being one of the most beautiful movies I've seen all year, I give "The New World" a 10 out of 10.