Terrence Malick's interest in silences has never been more evident than in his latest film, To the Wonder, a romance told through half-audible whispers.
Jeff Nichols's third film is a universal story told with a Southern working-class voice that's nearly unparalleled in modern American cinema. OA contributor Linc Leifeste interviewed Nichols about his Southern roots, his relationship with actor Michael Shannon, and some of the themes that run through his films.
It may come off as a bit of a stretch, but at this point Jimbo Mathus is somewhat of an institution in the South. Having slogged away in the rock & roll trenches for thirty-plus years, he has at times experienced—as so few musicians do—the ersatz glitter and sublime dizziness of massive mainstream success coupled with wide-ranging critical acclaim.
There is a natural ending to this film, however. As Lincoln readies himself for his fatal date night at Ford’s Theatre, he remarks “it’s time to go, but I’d rather stay.” Leaving the White House, his form gradually becomes a silhouette, one that’s already casting a long shadow across history. It’s the moment in which the man returns to being a legend.
Everyone wants tips, secrets, and shortcuts in order to navigate the daunting process of getting a movie made and seen. They often talk about it in wistful terms: “Oh, if we only had money, we could be shooting right now!” “Why can’t we get someone with money to look at our film proposal?” “If this was 1992 we would already be making this movie.”
