In this post on the Image Blog, Jeffrey Overstreet gushes (again) about the movie The New World: Here is a portion:
“That’s why I often revisit Terrence Malick’s masterpiece—The New World. The film has become like a liturgy for me. And this new Extended Cut, just released on DVD, could not have come at a better time. I’m exhausted by recent election coverage, campaign promises, and idealism that is as unrealistic as it is inspiring. I need to regain my perspective.
“Watching The New World again, I’m amazed at how Malick has improved upon an already brilliant tapestry, weaving in more than twenty new minutes that greatly enhance its poetry. No film that I can name is more attentive to the influence of natural beauty upon human beings. And no film more clearly illustrates what Psalm 19 has always claimed: That creation “pours forth speech” day by day. While friends complain that the film was already too long, I’ve caught Malick’s fever. As he meditates on the reflective qualities of still waters, they restore my soul.”
I once had this movie at home in my hand ready to watch, and several of my children told me to not waste my time with what they judged to be the most boring and unbearably long film in the history of the motion picture. And now it’s out in an extended cut.
I’m curious: have any of you seen it? If so, do you see any qualities in it that would make it worth a two and one-half hour investment of time?
Gail and Keith
No, haven’t seen the movie. Regarding one’s kids critiques of films, we’ve been that route countless times in our household. They say either, ‘ya gotta’ see this movie!’ or, ‘It was great, but Mother, you’d hate it.’ And this, ‘No, I am not going to see that movie!’ summarily dismissing any recommendation I might give to a movie. G
MagistraCarminum
As I recall, the cinematography was gorgeous, but we couldn’t wait for it to end. And LOL, Gail! We’ve had the same here…FWIW-Chris
Randy Greenwald
I take it then that you are not really up for the ‘extended cut’ version…
MagistraCarminum
Umm- I will definitely pass on the extended cut…
Matthew
I have seen it. I wouldn’t waste your time. I can remember to much about it except it came across cheesy and I almost fell asleep.
Randy Greenwald
With all these comments, now I’m seriously wondering what could make a film so BAD to so many and yet so STUNNING to others. Just don’t know if I want to invest 2.5 hours taking the risk.
MagistraCarminum
I think the cinematography is stunning. The plot and script (and even the acting)are terrible. But the scenes of virgin woodlands, majestic shores, etc., are breath-takingly beautiful. The problem is that eventually you get underwhelmed by the rest of it. At least, that’s my opinion!