Opened: February 19, 2021

Directed by: Chloé Zhao

Starring: Frances McDormand, David Strathairn, Linda May, Swankie, Bob Wells & Derek Endres

In what feels more like a documentary than a scripted film, director Chloé Zhao beautifully captures the strength of a woman who’s lost her stability in life.

After recently losing her husband, Fern (Frances McDormand) loses her job when the US Gypsum plant in Empire, Nevada, shuts down. She decides to live in her van while traveling the country. Along the way, she finds small jobs and great friends.

The film benefits from having most of the nomads Fern encounters being played by actual nomads in fictionalized versions of themselves. You’ll immediately be invested in the stories of Linda May and Swankie.

The cinematography in this film is absolutely gorgeous and shows off grand sights of America that are often overlooked. The land is as much of a character as any person.

Final say: A simple, yet stunning production. ★★★★☆