MOVIE REVIEW

“Nomadland”
RELEASE DATE: February 19, 2021
MPAA RATING: R (some full nudity)

With Nomadland, writer/director Chloé Zhao brings us an intimate look into the lives of folks who traverse the American west and establish geographic transient occupancy typically based on seasonal employment opportunities.

The film, adapted from a nonfiction book about nomadic, “house-less” individuals, is unique in style and approach. While Nomadland is certainly a star vehicle for the remarkably talented Frances McDormand (Fern) and offers an equally solid supporting cast (most notably an underplayed and credible performance by David Strathairn), it also features many actual nomads and the various locations at which they set-up residency, captured beautifully by cinematographer Joshua James Richards.

There is something magical and mystical about Nomadland as fiction meets reality. It is simply among the best films of the year, one that touches the heart; filled with emotion and poignancy.