Terrence Malick's TREE OF LIFE

Terrence Malick is somewhat of a Hollywood nomad. He comes and goes as he pleases, but his films always tend to leave a mark, even though he only makes one every so often. His films include BADLANDS, DAYS OF HEAVEN, THE NEW WORLD, and multi Oscar nominated THE THIN RED LINE. Though his films have never quite captivated me, they are sources of beauty and poetry-in-motion that one rarely sees in modern day cinema.

Here is a peek at Malick's facinating new film THE TREE OF LIFE:

Written & Directed by: Terrence MalickCast: Brad Pitt, Sean Penn and Jessica ChastainProducers: William Pohlad, Sarah Green, Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Grant Hill

Our picture is a cosmic epic, a hymn to life.We trace the evolution of an eleven-year-old boy in the Midwest, Jack, one of three brothers. At first all seems marvelous to the child. He sees as his mother does, with the eyes of his soul. She represents the way of love and mercy, where the father tries to teach his son the world's way, of putting oneself first. Each parent contends for his allegiance, and Jack must reconcile their claims. The picture darkens as he has his first glimpses of sickness, suffering and death. The world, once a thing of glory, becomes a labyrinth.

Framing this story is that of adult Jack, a lost soul in a modern world, seeking to discover amid the changing scenes of time that which does not change: the eternal scheme of which we are a part. When he sees all that has gone into our world's preparation, each thing appears a miracle — precious, incomparable. Jack, with his new understanding, is able to forgive his father and take his first steps on the path of life.The story ends in hope, acknowledging the beauty and joy in all things, in the everyday and above all in the family -- our first school -- the only place that most of us learn the truth about the world and ourselves, or discover life's single most important lesson, of unselfish love.

You can view the article here.