Review of The Tree of Life (2011) by Vance S — 15 Jan 2013

The best film of 2011! Malick's meditation on the miracle of life asks quite a bit from the viewer. If you're not the type of person who seeks to be challenged by a film, then this artistic expression may not be for you.

If, however, you wish to be captivated, then watch this film. Malick has always been a brilliant visual artist, but his mastery is in full-force here. In the actual story of the film, revolving around the lives of a Midwestern family in the 1950s, there is so much raw emotion in its simplicity.

The cut aways to sweeping vistas and stellar explosions only punctuate the importance of every minor moment performed on our tiny planet. Pitt is outstanding as the stern father who is never fully satisfied with where he is in life, but trying desperately to instill in his three sons an appreciation for life's struggles.

Chastain, while not a dominant figure on the screen, is more like an ethereal presence, almost angelic. Malick is well-known for his limited filmography. But the quality of his films far surpasses the quantity.