August 6, 2007
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Sweet Land
“It’s a poem, not a documentary.”
Ali Selim, writer and directorIf you like Wendell Berry, you’ll like Sweet Land.
If you like Andrew Wyeth, you’ll like Sweet Land.
If you want to show how sexy it can be not to touch, watch Sweet Land.
There’s a mail-order bride, Inge, who arrives in Minnesota in 1920 carrying a Victrola. She is prevented from marrying her husband-to-be because she is German. The story is told in a double flashback, from 2004 to 1968 to 1920.
Stark, spare, simple, poignant, economical, lush, slow, subtle, gorgeous, sweet, lyrical, sad, funny…..lovely!
I must own this film. I might even buy the soundtrack.
(Thank you to sweet Valeri and dear Rachel for the urgent summons to watch this.)
Note: I recommend watching this with subtitles. Inge speaks German and Norwegian and, although neither is translated, the subtitles distinguish this. Olaf understands Norwegian, but not German; knowing which she is tells you what he understands. The movie is very slow. This movie is as opposite the Bourne movies as one can be. If you like action, this one’s not for you.
Comments (7)
I added this to my Netflix queue last week – I’m moving it up. If it reminds you of Berry, I know I’ll love it. Thanks!
Carrie
Me, too! I have added it to the *Must Watch* list. Thanks
Ohh, I must add this one to my Netflix queue when I get home.
Deb
O, this looks yummy. Thanks for the good recommendation!
Maxine
The poster is gorgeous!!!
The actress is from Grey’s Anatomy.
(I knew I recognized her. I think she is nominated for an Emmy)
I will borrow it too!
Thanks
I just watched this on your recommendation. It is like Wendell Berry: The Movie. I loved the spartan pictures, words and story, especially in light of my misfortune of getting to the latest Bourne movie late enough to have to sit way up front. I hate that Bourne cinematography.
I’m glad you liked it Cindy. I watched this alone, wrote the raving post, watched it with my husband, and then was doubtful.
The pace and lack of action made it hard for him. He says he would have enjoyed it in the winter when he is prepared to sit.