Review: The Tree of Life (2011)

Hello everyone, today I am going to do a little review about the film "The Tree of Life" (2011).

"The Tree of Life" is a 2011 American film written and directed by Terrence Malick. The cast is composed by Brad Pitt (Mr. O'Brien), Jessica Chastain (Mrs. O'Brien), Sean Penn (Jack O'Brien), and Hunter McCracken as young Jack. 

The story of the film consists in a lot of raccontos or flashback -whatever you prefer- of an adult Jack. Who reflect on his childhood, the death of one of his brothers in Vietnam and the creation of the universe. So, the film is an epic, existential journey through the cosmos and his creation. 

Nonetheless, is easy to fool yourself thinking that this film is an all out war epic. Where there are a lot of gigantic set pieces and battles. Especifically, the feature film is an experimental drama recorded, most of the time, with a camera on the shoulder. Also, It is important to say that the film is very long. Approximately, a total of 139 minutes. But, in my humble opinion, this is not a problem. Because, the rhythm is constant and fluid.

The visual effects are out of this world. They are easily comparable with the magnificent film "2001: A Space Odyssey". The sequence of the origin of the universe, is one of the best sequences of cinema that I have ever see. Everytime I see it, I get a big smile on my face. 

In adittion, the soundtrack is beautiful, and is well put together with the scenes that are transcurring in front of you. For example, "Lacrimosa" by Zbigniew Preisner, transform the sequence of the origin of the cosmos in something worthy to observe. Also, the soundtrack composed by Alexandre Desplat is formidable.

The cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki is awesome and thought-provoking. Every frame is well put together and give you a sense of belonging. Also, there is a great importance in the close-ups of the faces of the actors. The cinematography is not a big surprise if we have in mind other films directed by Terrence Malick, for example, Days of Heaven (1978). Which, is considered by many, like one of the most beautiful films of all times.

In other sense, the cast is very good. Brad Pitt is superb as the strict father of Jack, and Hunter McCracken have a strange aura that make him stand out from the others child actors. If we get inside the themes of the film, Mr. O'Brien (Brad Pitt), represents Nature in the sense of that oppressive force that would crush others for his own survival. Meanwhile, Mrs. O'Brien (Jessica Chastain), represents Grace. Figure that is associated with kindness.

In conclusion, "The Tree of Life" is one of the best films that I have ever see. The movie have all the things that make your film a classic: an extraordinary cinematography and visual effects, a great cast and a beautiful soundtrack. I recommend this film to everyone who want to sit for 3 hours and reflect about the meaning of life. But, It is important to say, that is not a film for everyone.

I hope that you enjoyed this review. I would like to read your comments. Tell me if you had seen this film or if you plan to see it in some point of your life. Please, share your comments.