In just a few days, Netflix will bid farewell to a cinematic gem that has captured hearts and minds alike with its haunting beauty. This film, boasting a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, has been lauded by viewers for its emotional depth, with many declaring it “one of the finest movies I’ve seen in years.” Critics have echoed this sentiment, praising its “masterfully done” production and calling it “deeply intelligent.” One viewer even remarked, “It’s a movie that will live with me for a long time.”
The film in question, Leave No Trace, stands proudly alongside cinematic legends like The Godfather (97%), Schindler’s List (97%), and Casablanca (99%), yet it has managed to fly under the radar for many. Its limited release, modest box office of £5 million, and the absence of star-studded names might explain why this exceptional film hasn’t received the recognition it deserves.
The poignant story unfolds in the serene yet tumultuous backdrop of an Oregon nature reserve, where a war veteran and his young daughter lead a secluded life. Their tranquil existence, spent in a makeshift tent and filled with the simplicity of campfire cooking and reading, gets disrupted by an unexpected encounter with a hiker. The narrative is grounded in reality, inspired by a true story of a father and daughter who evaded detection while living in the vast wilderness for an extended period.
A 2004 article from The Oregonian detailed how the duo was discovered after a jogger reported “suspicious people” in the park. Despite their secluded lifestyle, the Portland police found them the next day, hidden close to their well-constructed campsite. Authorities unearthed items like sleeping bags, partially burned wood, and a collection of World Book Encyclopediasâ€â€indicators of a remarkably self-sufficient existence.
To the astonishment of law enforcement, the pair had maintained commendable hygiene and health, with officers noting the articulate nature of the 12-year-old. In the film adaptation, the roles of the father and daughter are brought to life by the talented Ben Foster and Thomasin McKenzie, under the direction of Debra Granik. Granik is lauded for her artistic prowess, having previously played a crucial role in launching Jennifer Lawrence’s career.
The New York Times encapsulated the film’s essence well by stating, “Neither actor begs for your heart, but eachâ€â€like this movieâ€â€takes it.” The critic emphasized Granik’s exceptional ability to create vibrant, living spaces on screen, placing audiences right alongside her characters, whether in cozy homes or the vastness of nature.
Echoing this sentiment, the Chicago Sun-Times remarked that Leave No Trace serves as further evidence of Granik’s exceptional talent, while highlighting Ben Foster as one of the finest and most intense actors in contemporary cinema. The Dallas Morning News expressed a desire to see more features from Granik, appreciating her distinctive voice in filmmaking.