Review of Wendy and Lucy (2008) by Tremor I — 27 Dec 2008
From the opening to the closing scenes of "Wendy and Lucy", the film remains firmly anchored by an ongoing sense of uncertainty and a tiny waver of hope that's marred by an ever-pervading cloud of despair.
Kelly Reichardt's sixth feature sees Michelle Williams (last seen in the utterly forgettable "Deception") delivering a surprisingly understated performance as the vulnerable drifter Wendy. (Also, watch out for indie folk singer Will Oldham's guest starring role as a flaky drifter.).
More of a character study than a narrative execursion, even then not much is revealed of the film's protagonist. But when she calls her sister and brother-in-law for help and is unsympathetically turned away, it's obvious that her interrupted roadtrip to Alaska for a better future is a desperate change from an unpleasant past.
The movie begins with a seemingly ordinary breakdown of her car that eventually spirals into a bittersweet ending. Along the way, Wendy and her dog Lucy meet an assorted cast of characters living in the quiet, forgotten town.
Leave behind any expectations of melodramatic plots or climatic endings and trek through this unforgiving landscape accompanied by Wendy and Lucy.
This review of Wendy and Lucy (2008) was written by Tremor I on 27 Dec 2008.
Wendy and Lucy has generally received positive reviews.
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