Robin Wright is one of the most recognizable actresses in Hollywood and the star of some of the most beloved films in the history of cinema. Thus, her debut behind the camera is a director has been an anticipated one as many are excited to see her possibly succeed in a new role after a long and successful onscreen career. Her directorial debut exploring the depths of grief and depression and the role that human connection can play in lifting us from even the deepest recesses made its debut at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival. Does it shine as brightly as she usually does?
Land introduces us to Edee (Robin Wright), a woman from the big city who, after her life is tragically altered, loses the ability to connect with the world and the people around her. Edee retreats to a forest in the Rocky Mountains with a few supplies, with no way to contact the outside world, leaving her old life behind indefinitely. The beauty of her new surroundings is undeniable yet quickly humbling as she struggles to adjust and prepare for the winter ahead. When Edee is caught on the brink of death, a local hunter named Miguel (Demián Bichir) and his family miraculously save her, but she alone must find a way to live again.
Land meanders about during its first half as we see Edee try to become acclimated to living off of the land while still wrestling with the demons of her past. The film picks up with the introduction of Miguel and her becoming acclamated to life in the wilderness as Miguel teaches her how to be a woodswoman, giving her the tools to survive on her own. The film itself gaining steam as we are introduced to Miguel mirrors Land’s lesson and theme of the importance of friendship and companionship in our lives, particularly as it pertains to overcoming strife. Over time, the most precious wisdom that Miguel imparts to Edie is how she can open herself up to human connection and emotions other than grief after all that she’s been through. Closing one’s self off from the world as Edee does in the beginning of the film may offer temporary relief, but full healing requires being open to experiencing the joy that life has to offer and the reassuring support of knowing that someone is in your corner and willing to give you a lift when it’s needed most.
With her debut feature, Robin Wright reveals herself to be an intimate filmmaker, both in terms of her visual style and how she spins the narrative. Wright uses close up angles on faces as a way to convey emotion and bring the audience into the same mind frame as the characters onscreen. The scenic landscape of the Canadian province of Alberta where the film was shot also gives Wright and director of photography Bobby Bukowski the opportunity to show off their flair for beautiful establishing shots on the endless green forests and snow capped mountainous terrain surrounding Edie’s cabin. While Land is a picturesque display of Alberta that may provide a boost in tourism Land feels slightly too familiar despite being a quality production. Its story of the strength and importance of friendship and persevering over adversity and trauma is one that we’ve seen told well before and with greater depth. Wright delivers the high quality performance as an actress that has made her a beloved figure in the business for 40 years while Demián Bichir compliments her perfectly as the friend that makes her realize life is worth continuing to live, resulting in chemistry that prevents the film from being a total bore. Still, the film is ultimately forgettable as it provides nothing new or impactful enough to stick with after the closing credits begin to roll. While Land doesn’t hit the bullseye directly, Robin Wright does possess interesting potential as a filmmaker, particularly with her visual capabilities, if she gets the opportunity to work with stronger material.
Image: Focus Features
