Nomadland
Fern, a hard-working widow has lived her entire adult life in Empire, which suffered a huge blow in 2011 when the gypsum mine closed. She travels around the country in her van (named Vanguard), working any seasonal job she can. This stunning performance by McDormand, is at heart of this film, a personal portrait of quiet but formidable resilience. After an employment supervisor tells her she is not suitable for anything, Fern joins the camp of van-dwelling guru Bob Wells. At this point the film becomes a road movie, the cinematography captures both the joys of the ever-shifting beautiful landscapes.
Frances McDormand delivered possibly the performance of a lifetime playing a woman living life on her own terms. She is more stripped-back than ever, blending in with the non-professionals while giving Fern a majestic personality. She is guided beautifully by the director – Chloé Zhao, a filmmaker who’s soulful, unhurried storytelling is so full of compassion and moments of solitude.
Nomadland is a beautiful tale of life in a disenfranchised America. It’s full of emotion, tenderness and is profoundly moving. Deservedly winning the Oscar for best picture in 2021.
The film has been out for a while and is available on most streaming services, as well DVD & blu-ray.
