Review of Winter's Bone (2010) by Craig H — 17 Jun 2012
The idea to make a "classy" slow burn noir about white trash was something that shouldn't have worked, but I thought Debra Granik pulled it off extremely well. An enthralling mystery, a bleak but strangely beautiful portrayal of a rural environment, an emotional tale of stubbornness and courage and an intense family drama featuring natural performances.
It's a profoundly moving film although the emotion is never overstated, a profoundly riveting film although not in the typical Hollywood fashion. There is a lot at play in the film about the conflict between law and society but ultimately it's a testament to the extremes we're willing to go to help the people we love.
For all the raves about Jennifer Lawrence's performance I actually thought John Hawke's turn as Teardrop was the best thing about the film. He is a criminally underrated actor. Every time I see him in something I feel like I'm watching a completely different person, be it this, Deadwood, or even Eastbound and Down.
This review of Winter's Bone (2010) was written by Craig H on 17 Jun 2012.
Winter's Bone has generally received very positive reviews.
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