Review of Promised Land (2012) by Michael M — 24 May 2013

I really enjoyed PROMISED LAND. Gus Van Sant's direction is always reliable. Filmed on location, the movie has a real-life feeling. While the plot twist was unexpected, the outcome was not. Matt Damon and John Krasniski not only star in the film, they also co-wrote it.

There-in lies the only flaw in the film. Damon is not an actor that takes risks, and the leading character could have been a bit more morally ambiguous. As an actor, Damon fears being disliked, and it shows in his writing.

Overcoming the safe writing is Frances McDormand, who is brilliant in everything but brings the depth this film often lacks.