Tree of Life - No Grade (yet)

In theaters. Rated PG-13, 138 minutes. Trailer.

Seeing a Terrence Malick film for the first time is always an interesting proposition. The glaring lack of narrative and whispered scripture-ish prose can be initially daunting and/or frustrating. I find that my enjoyment and appreciation for his films grows exponentially with repeat viewings. That being said, Tree of Life is like a film bookended with long spiritual prayers. The film tackles THE big questions of grace/nature, eternity, creation and loss of innocence. As always, Malick juxtaposes the frivolity of individual human circumstances against the infinity and expanse of nature and the cosmos to remind us of our relative insignificance. Click below for more on TOL:

The film opens with some whispered sprituality and then gets into a 30ish minute rendering of the origins of the universe, earth and life. This sequence is without dialogue and features typically amazing visuals and a haunting soundtrack. Malick is said to have been developing this sequence for 30+ years and it shows in this stunning 2001-esque presentation. Then we join a 50's era family in central Texas, with 3 boys, a loving mom and a hard-nosed and critical father. This storyline is essentially exploring loss of innocence, but also human nature.

Throughout the film there are juxtapositions of trees vs. buildings, industry vs. nature and recurring visits to a peaceful river scene. The family portion of the film feels a little under-developed, so its not surprising that Malick is planning a 6 hour version of the film.

The final scenes of the film are over-the-top French art film crazy, with souls walking on a beach and lots of confusing visuals - maybe it will make more sense with repeat viewings, but for now I was trying to figure out what was going on.

Can't wait for additional viewings. More on this one after I see it again.