Review of The Woodsman (2004) by Judith R — 04 Oct 2007

Kevin Bacon must be one of the must under-rated actors working. He's never splashy or showy--his great strength as an actor is in his stillness and control, which serves him perfectly in this role.

I suppose the fall-back description of this film (and Bacon and Sedgwick's performances) is "brave", but that's a little reductive or simplistic or something.

Art--and artists--ought to, from time to time, tackle the most challenging aspects of the human condition, and this film doesn't shy away from attempting some insight into the mind and heart of a--dare I say it?--reluctant paedophile.

The fundamental question "The Woodsman" seeks to explore is, is redemption possible? Personal redemption--because society and the media and the justice system aren't much interested in redemption. (Punishment is so much easier, requires so much less thought, less challenge.).

Does it answer the question? Not entirely--but it leaves open the possibility--the possibility of humanity. That's a great achievement.

This film asks us to look into the heart of darkness with compassion and a willingness to understand, if not forgive. So yeah, I reckon that is, after all, pretty brave.