Review of Wind River (2017) by Lana N — 23 Mar 2018

Wind River is a visceral experience. The outer shell of the movie is that of a murder mystery set in the cold & desolate landscapes of Wyoming. The deeper implications turn a light on some of the harsh realities of native communities, the pain & grief of loss as well as taking a dark, sobering look at humanity.

The setting here plays a vital role in conveying the message that the movie wants to push forward as well as providing a suiting environment for the tragedy that succumbs the reserve of Wind River. The mood is set right from the beginning with its vast, snow barren wildlands; there's certainly nowhere to run to as the opening scene makes so glaringly obvious.

Jeremy Renner's role as Cory Lambert, the wildlife service agent of the area, commands a strong presence on screen. The supporting cast deserves a nod as well (particularly Gil Birmingham), but Renner is really the one that conjures the strong emotions that Sheridan wants to bring to the forefront of his work here. A great performance that is as convincing as it is moving.

The murder mystery itself is thin with little build up albeit the end result being heart wrenching. Yet the aim of Wind River is not to keep viewers guessing on who might have done it. It's much more a story centered on loss & grief and the struggles of life on a reserve. In that respect, the movie succeeds quite well.