Review of The Woodsman (2004) by Philip S — 06 Mar 2011
A film that evokes many different reactions, but, as a result, seems to lack identity or coherence. Bacon is very effective as the recently paroled pedophile and the supporting cast is also strong. I wondered about the writing, though.
At times it is subtle and wonderful, at others it is crass and obvious. I haven't read the play so I can't tell which is from the screenplay adaptation and which is from the source. Kyra Segwick is great, but her character is confusing and somewhat unbelievable.
Walter (Bacon) is so obviously creepy and charmless that it seems illogical that Vicki (Segwick) and Mary-Kay (Eve) would both take an interest in him - new guy or not. You don't want to cheer for a pedophile, which is part of the film's power.
Can you see the person beyond the sin? ...Should you? This is a film that plays a bit like a made-for-tv, so catch it on a lazy weekend afternoon.
This review of The Woodsman (2004) was written by Philip S on 06 Mar 2011.
The Woodsman has generally received positive reviews.
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