This week we discuss two Neo-Westerns directed by Chinese American filmmaker Chloé Zhao.
The first is The Rider (2017), a semi-fictionalised account of former bronc rider Brady Jandreau. With a cast of real people playing themselves, Zhao captures an honest depiction of life in rural South Dakota, and of a man dealing with the effects of a life-altering accident.
The second is Nomadland (2020), starring Frances McDormand as Fern, a widow who chooses to take up a life on the road living out of a van. The film has received much critical acclaim, garnering 4 Golden Globe nominations, and is a clear Oscar contender.
Timestamps
The Rider (00:07:10)
Nomadland (00:33:30)
John Spillane’s review of Birth (01:12:55)
Links
Instagram -
@callitfriendopodcast
@munnywales
@andyjayritchie
@thejohnspillane
Lane Scott video –
https://youtu.be/Ab_CnUA9aIM
Rolling Stone article –
https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-features/wild-horses-how-the-rider-became-the-breakout-movie-of-2018-629297
Trey Parker & Matt Stone on Sean Penn –
https://youtu.be/sCq3K2O8htw
Justwatch.com – streaming and rental links
https://www.justwatch.com
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