★★★★★★★ (7/7)
"The Tree of Life" is the story of a family in Waco, Texas in 1956. The eldest son witnesses the loss of innocence and struggles with his parents' conflicting teachings. It is Terrence Malick's fifth film and was supposedly in the making for over 30 years.
"If you grew up wondering what is good, what is evil, gazing at the horizon questioning what is beyond. If the sands of time are drifting and the child inside of you is still whispering, this is not a movie, this is your life."
I have never watched a movie that has been received so differently by audiences as Terrence Malick's "The Tree of Life." I have talked to people that hate this move, and I can honestly say that I can see how one could. However, many others (myself included), think that "The Tree of Life" is not only an amazing film, but an artistic masterpiece.
When watching the filmography of Terrence Malick it can be seen very early on that he often abandons the use of a traditional narrative. This proves difficult for many viewers, as a linear story is much easier to follow and much more common. This along with the film being "pretentious" were the common complaints about this film. I had no complaints.
I have never had a movie viewing experience that is anywhere near what I experienced watching "The Tree of Life." I experienced a sense of awe during the entire runtime of the film. If any of Terrence Malick's films could be considered his magnum opus, it would this. "The Tree of Life" explores the roles of grace and nature in one's life and how this relates to faith and love. Although I did not grow up in Waco, Texas in 1956, I saw my own life in this film.
In "The Tree of Life," Terrence Malick brilliantly explores the meaning of faith. Spanning from the creation of the universe all the way to the life of a family in Waco, Texas, Malick makes the viewer think and question about the many wonders of life. It is not often that I have come across a film that is as deep and thought provoking as this one.
Regardless of one's thoughts about the themes and overarching story of "The Tree of LIfe," there are many other aspects to marvel at. This film is one of the most visually stunning films that I have ever encountered. The uses of warm and natural light makes scenes seem comforting and familiar. Jessica Chastain and Brad Pitt do a fantastic job of portraying the ways of grace and nature, and Brad Pitt gives what I believe to be the best performance of his career. Furthermore, the stories I have heard about this film's production amaze me even more. Stories of the camera crew following a butterfly for hours until it landed on Chastain's hand, or Malick holding casting for the roles of the children for ten years only show the attention to detail put into the making of this film.
"The Tree of Life" will always remain one of the most unique films that I have ever seen. It is certainly one of the most moving films I have seen and quickly became one of my all time favorites. I will always carry the message with me that "unless you love, your life will flash by."
Comments