THE HOMESMAN is a dark and gritty western exploring the topic of mental illness in less enlightened times. The story was adapted by Tommy Lee Jones from a 1980s novel, and Jones also directed and stars in the picture as the titular character. He plays an old-timer who agrees to help Hilary Swank transport three mentally ill women some 500 miles to a place of sanctuary where they can be cared for.
First off, this is very well shot movie with strong direction from Jones, whose performance is also a quality one. The colours are bright and the landscapes are beauty, which contrasts with the ugly scenes involving the main characters. Mental illness has always been a difficult subject matter for cinema - ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST is one of the few successful explorations of the topic - and it translates into a depressing and yes, upsetting story here.
There are some dark twists and turns along the way, but the characters and acting keep you watching, and at least one crowd-pleasing moment designed to lift the spirits a little. THE HOMESMAN isn't really a film you can say you enjoy watching, but kudos to Jones for making something a bit different from the norm.
First off, this is very well shot movie with strong direction from Jones, whose performance is also a quality one. The colours are bright and the landscapes are beauty, which contrasts with the ugly scenes involving the main characters. Mental illness has always been a difficult subject matter for cinema - ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST is one of the few successful explorations of the topic - and it translates into a depressing and yes, upsetting story here.
There are some dark twists and turns along the way, but the characters and acting keep you watching, and at least one crowd-pleasing moment designed to lift the spirits a little. THE HOMESMAN isn't really a film you can say you enjoy watching, but kudos to Jones for making something a bit different from the norm.