WINTER'S BONE

Photos provided by Roadside AttractionsA young woman attempts to salvage her home and family by locating her father in the drama WINTER’S BONE.

Ree is a high-school age teenager, probably seventeen or eighteen, one who isn't concerned about prom or even final exams, but rather keeping a roof over her family’s head and food on the table. With her father missing, and mother bed-ridden, Ree serves as the head of the household, scraping up food where she can, and teaching her young brother and sister how to survive as best as they can.

Ree and her family’s major obstacle is retaining possession of their house. Ree’s father was incarcerated, posted bond with the family’s home and then fled. The authorities have notified Ree that if her father isn’t found in a week, the city takes over her family’s home. Ree sets out on a quest, determined to find her father.

It’s not often that films cut to the core of basic human necessities, but WINTER’S BONE does, serving up a drama that’s equally thrilling and moving.

Desperation is at the core of WINTER’S BONE, and is expertly presented by director and co-writer Debra Granik. The time period could be present day or fifteen years ago, and although the film is set in the Ozarks, it could easily be set in the West, Midwest or great Northeast, as the essence of Ree’s world is that of rugged, quiet despair, where the adults run amuck in illegal activity and the children seem like an afterthought.

Building this odd, eerie and plausible atmosphere is no easy task, but Granik’s accomplishment not only sets the tone, but ends up delivering quite a dramatic punch. Granik’s steady direction is essential, but would be for naught if it wasn’t for a brilliant lead performance by newcomer Jennifer Lawrence.

Only 19-years old, Lawrence is completely in command and assured as Ree. Conveying a deep determination, tough attitude and street savy, Lawrence creates a modern day heroine. Her performance places everything in context. Some of the actions and reactions by her family members and acquaintances could have moved the film in a dark, almost sadistic place, but through her convincing portrayal, we accept the unusual encounters as status quo for Ree.

Lawerence’s performance is one of the best of the year, and the film is too.

Grade: B+