1) Nomadland
Chloe Zhao has been on my radar since The Rider, and Nomadland is an even more remarkable achievement. Following the life of Fern, played by Francis McDormand, a widow who lives in her van and travels across the country to work, the film exudes raw empathy from every scene. Francis McDormand’s natural performance projects such a strong sense of character; I want to learn more about her life. It’s just amazing and, at times, haunting watching McDormand’s character try to make the most of her life after losing everything during the Great Recession. Simultaneously, the film doesn’t offer pity; it’s not as simple as “feeling sorry for her” instead, the film just shows living and making the most of whatever’s next. It’s not a depressing film; it’s not an uplifting film; it’s hard to describe the emotions I feel when I watch it, I just know it feels honest, and I felt fulfilled after watching it.
You can read Knockturnal writer Liam Haber’s full review here.
Here’s hoping 2021 is a better year for all of us. See you at the movies, hopefully, at a theater
