A HIDDEN LIFE (2019)

 

Written & Directed by: Terrence Malick Cinematography: Joerg Widmer Editor: Rehman Nizarali, Joe Gleason & Sebastian Jorsi 

Cast: August Diehl, Maria Simon, Karin Neuhauser, Tobias Moretti, Ulrich Matthias, Matthias Schoenaerts, Bruno Ganz, Michael Nyqvist 

Based on real events, A Hidden Life is the story of an unsung hero, Bl. Franz Jägerstätter, who refused to fight for the Nazis in World War II. When the Austrian peasant farmer is faced with the threat of execution for treason, it is his unwavering faith and his love for his wife, Fani, and children that keeps his spirit alive.

This film is a love story of life and family itself. 

One of the reasons this film is so much more enjoyable or ranks  above Terrence Malick’s more recent films is that it is not as abstract. Still visually beautiful but doesn’t rely on things such as narration and voice over to tell It’s Tale. It doesn’t feel like a puzzle to be be solved.

The film is a tragedy but it is a film full of life and excitement. As it slowly dwindles down to hopelessness but in there there is hope and a fulfillment of spirit.

It’s based on a true story and let’s the strength of character be told there. It doesn’t have as much existential and philosophical angst and questions. There is a strong story as well as telling a story based on actual things that happens and offers a look at a historical event. So that it feels stronger and put together like more of his classic films rather then KNIGHT OF CUPS, TREE OF LIFE  and SONG TO SONG story a lesser degree TO THE WONDER. Which felt like Director Malick run amuck with his creativity or his poetry period.

This film might be stronger as it is based on a true story and makes the director stay within certain guidelines. Where he has space can can’t deter too off or too free form. This works in his historical tales and adaptations of novels.

Like most of his films this film feels spiritual above all else. They feel like they are taking you on a journey even when they might not be moving anywhere and pretty much have the characters in their regular day to day activities

He makes films that are much more powerful on the big screen and feels like you can get into the same wavelength if you have no other option and are surrounded giving into it’s will so to speak.  Not letting it do so much of the storytelling. If there is it is in the form of letters bit inner thoughts 

It helps Fill in certain aspects of the story. That might not be that interesting to Show or out in screen. but it shouldn’t Take Over the narrative and do most of the work And allows for the philosophical standing up for ones beliefs is at the heart of the story. 

When the modern intrudes in the ills classic way of life. How then religious chooses to respect those in power instead of staying by it’s principals.

It also feels like a film that hits harder and is more relatable in the current political and world climate. 

Grade: B+