Review of Slow West

Slow West (2015)
9/10
Superb Western of an entirely different breed
4 September 2018
Most Westerns are, well, pretty formulaic, with a few novel characters and dependence on violent imagery to fill the 90-120 minutes in today's cinema. This film offers lush imagery of western landscapes, beautifully photographed, a heart-tugging romantic quest, and a story of redemption for at least one character with an admittedly shady past.

The story centers on a young Scot's quest to reunite with his true love, Rose, another Scottish immigrant making a new life in the closing days of the still-perilous wild west. He travels at first alone, spurred both by love and the idealized vision of a peaceful, tranquil west he has read about in books.

After a near fatal incident, he is joined by a veteran guide/frontiersman who offers to guide him to his reunion many miles further west. There are surprises, hidden agendas, poetic romantic reminiscences, and-yes- violent encounters, all contributing to a well-paced, gripping and oft times, moving story.

I cannot remember a film of this genre so diverse and gorgeous. Well done. More!!!
21 out of 26 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed