“Meek’s Cutoff” is a methodically slow-paced period western akin to the pioneers’ ponderous trek. In 1845, three families, perhaps injudiciously, follow a mountaineer trail guide named Stephen Meek (an unrecognizable, bushy-bearded Bruce Greenwood) to lead them on a shorter route across the Cascade Mountains to their Oregon destination. Trudging along desert terrain, the weary, thirsty travelers appear lost and begin doubting Meek’s veracity and intentions, especially when they are joined by a Cayuse Indian (Rod Rondeaux).
Independent filmmaker Kelly Reichardt of “Wendy and Lucy” offers an epic feature with Michelle Williams in a leading role and an impressive, stand-out performance. As Emily, her clashes with Meek are dramatic highlights. The ensemble cast includes Will Patton as her husband, with Shirley Henderson, Neal Huff, Zoe Kagan and Paul Dano as the settlers. Striking cinematography of the landscape and background images is loftily photographed in the meditative venture which is more a thinking person’s western than an old-fashioned, shoot-‘em-up.
Image Source: Gecko Movies
