Wildlife

Wildlife, released in 2018, is a powerful and introspective film that explores the theme of family dynamics and their impact on personal growth. Directed by Paul Dano, the movie tells the story of a teenage boy, Joe Brinson (Ed Oxenbould), who watches his family fall apart before his eyes in the small town of Great Falls, Montana, in the 1960s.

The film opens with Joe and his parents, Jerry (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Jeanette (Carey Mulligan), living a seemingly peaceful life. Jerry works as a golf instructor while Jeanette is a stay-at-home mom. However, Jerry's sudden loss of his job, combined with his increasing dissatisfaction with his life, sets off a chain of events that puts a strain on their family dynamics.

Jeanette, desperate to provide for her family, takes a job as a swimming instructor and starts to blossom into a confident and independent woman. But her newfound sense of self clashes with Jerry's traditional views, and they become increasingly distant from each other. As their relationship deteriorates, Joe finds himself caught in the middle of their arguments, struggling to make sense of the complex dynamics at play.

One of the movie's central themes is the passage of time and how it affects our relationships. Wildlife is a coming-of-age film not only for Joe but also for Jeanette, who realizes that her life has been full of missed opportunities. Her growing sense of regret is palpable, and Carey Mulligan delivers a nuanced and powerful performance that captures the character's inner turmoil.

At the same time, Wildlife is also a study of masculinity and its limitations. Jake Gyllenhaal is excellent as the troubled Jerry, whose inability to come to terms with his own failure leads him down a self-destructive path. His arc is heartbreaking to watch but also illuminating, as it speaks to the societal pressures men face to conform to certain ideals of masculinity.

As with many indie films, Wildlife relies heavily on its stunning cinematography and impeccable direction to tell its story. Paul Dano, in his directorial debut, proves to be a real talent, crafting a narrative that is both subtle and emotionally rich. The film's setting in rural Montana is also evocative, capturing the isolation and beauty of the American West.

Despite its heavy themes, Wildlife is not a bleak movie. There is a sense of hope that comes from the film's final moments, which hint at the possibility of reconciliation and growth. The performances from the main cast are outstanding, particularly Carey Mulligan's, whose performance was widely praised by critics.

Overall, Wildlife is a beautiful and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of human relationships with honesty and sensitivity. It is a testament to the power of indie cinema and the importance of telling stories that are both personal and universal. If you are a fan of slow-burning dramas that delve into the human psyche, then Wildlife is definitely worth a watch.