MEEK’S CUTOFF (Theatrical Release Canada 2011)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.8|5.0 Starsììì

Meek’s Cutoff experimentally uses a writing technique where the audience, unfamiliar with the history behind Oregon scout and wagon train leader Stephen Meek’s decision to blaze a new wagon train trail, can interpret and debate the meaning of the final scene. For those familiar with the history, however, the final scene is known and understood. The film uses seasoned actors Bruce Greenwood and Will Patton along with some newer actors, Paul Dano and Michelle Williams, to complete its story. The cast works well together. This film does not follow a strong western ‘shoot ‘em up, ride it hard’ format.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

Native American challenges lead to the blazing of a new trail by Oregon pioneers.

Additional Thanks

Thank You to Director Kelly Reichardt for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Todd Haynes, Phil Morrison, Andrew Pope, Laura Rosenthal, Mike S. Ryan, Rajen Savjani, and Steven Tuttleman for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Emily Tetherow (Michelle Williams), Stephen Meek (Bruce Greenwood), Soloman Tetherow (Will Patton), Millie Gately (Zoe Kazan), Thomas Gately (Paul Dano), Glory White (Shirley Henderson), William White (Neal Huff), Jimmy White (Tommy Nelson), and The Indian (Rod Rondeaux).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The film relies on good acting despite its ambiguously blunt ending.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers