Review of The Clearing (2004) by Bill M — 19 Mar 2011
Kidnap dramas rarely spring surprises. In this one, Willem Dafoe captures executive Wayne Hayes (Robert Redford) from his Pittsburgh mansion, much to the horror of his wife, Eileen (Helen Mirren). So far, so familiar.
But hold up. The Clearing is something remarkably different. The pleasures mined from this film, directed with a keen eye for nuance and detail by Pieter Jan Brugge, is lifted from dramatic trappings by its brilliant cast. Dafoe is all mystery menace, but also manages to sneak in some welcome vulnerability. Mirren delivers one of the most understated performances of her career, doing much more with a look and a glance than most actresses, and comes up with a moving portrait of a betrayed wife. And Redford is just spectacular, giving a riveting performance of quiet intensity as an adulterous husband forced to face his sins and faults as his kidnapper drags him through the woods. The Clearing is rich with psychological subtext that the actors bring out brilliantly.
This review of The Clearing (2004) was written by Bill M on 19 Mar 2011.
The Clearing has generally received mixed reviews.
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