Review of Days of Heaven (1978) by Tomas T — 24 Dec 2010

Cinematically directed and remotely acted the Days of Heaven sets itself a part from traditional drama/romance movies.

The directing and camera work are state of art in the movie, especially in the beginning of the movie during the harvest there are series of scenes which in odd way take a hold of one. The settings with the old machinery also must receive praise, they combined with the fine directing create a very credible surrounding for the movie. They combined with the characters who are distantly portrayed - showing very little emotions -capture the early 20th century athmosphere perfectly; with its strict behaviour code abiding people, who yet are not afraid to express their more dynamic sides in suddent outbursts when needed. R.Gere definitely gives a ok role as a conartist, but like with many other veteran actors, one can observe that they have evolved very little during the decades.

The movie has been criticised for its slow pace and it is true but feels intentional and suits the movie well. Thus the Days of Heaven is a movie which easily divides the viewers in two groups, either one apriciate the directing, settings and the actors in the movie or one just feels bored about the pacing. Personally belonging to the first group, the Days of Heaven is memorable movie yet not without its faults. Some of the scenes and characters of the movie feel like fillers having very little meaning for the movie; eye catching yes but not movie experienced ruining.