Country

Country is a hard-hitting rural drama from 1984, directed by Richard Pearce, that skillfully reflects on the crisis faced by the American farming community of the 1980s. The movie stars the dramatically formidable Jessica Lange, Sam Shepard, and Wilford Brimley in a heartfelt depiction of the daily concerns and struggles small-time farmers face against the backdrop of an unjust economic system.

In this cinema verité-style feature, Jessica Lange delivers a riveting performance as Jewell Ivy, a perseverant, strong-willed woman, whose life epitomizes the harsh realities and human resilience prevailing amongst the American farming community. Lange's portrayal of a strong and resourceful woman grappling with poverty and impending disaster is fierce, raw, and deeply emotional, a testament to her considerable acting prowess.

Sam Shepard, an accomplished actor, and playwright portray Jewell's husband, Gilbert Ivy. He masterfully humanizes the all-too-real inscrutability of a man stubbornly wrestling with his fate and upholding his family's honour in the face of financial ruin. Shepard's Gilbert is a stark portrayal of a proud, hardworking farmer wrestling with his emotions as he confronts a disastrous financial situation. His performance illuminates the complexities of Gilbert's character, who remains committed to his homestead despite increasingly desperate circumstances.

Broadway veteran and character actor Wilford Brimley immaculately represents the bureaucrats who administer the rules of the financially crushing system. His portrayal underscores the detachment and lack of empathy from those who hold power over the rural farming communities.

The film vividly captures the emotional and psychological trauma of the agrarian crisis, using the grit and beauty of rural life as its aesthetic pallet. Country’s narrative unflinchingly traverses the stark severity of an unforgiving economic landscape, showcasing the harrowing experiences of rural families grappling with bankruptcy, foreclosure, and ultimately eviction, due to the brutal agricultural policies of the era.

Filmed on location amidst the sprawling farmland of Iowa, the film captures the veritable ethos of a farming community's rugged authenticity. The sweeping landscapes and pastoral beauty are almost poetic, acting as a silent testament to the harsh lives lived out on America's heartland. Richard Pearce's direction brilliantly juxtaposes the bleak narrative against the expansive American midwest countryside, underscoring the palpable irony of a beleaguered agrarian community marred by financial hardship amidst the visibly abundant fertility of the land.

The story, written by William D. Wittliff, subtly navigates the political aspect of the farming crisis without leaning towards partisan extremes. Instead, it steadfastly focuses on the human dimension of the crisis, resulting in a well-balanced and empathetic view of the troubled farmers' plight. Coupled with Pearce's discerning direction, the narrative manages to efficiently evoke an air of urgent concern while maintaining a poetic air that amplifies the film's lasting impact.

Cinematographer David M. Walsh skillfully captures the realistic and somber mood of the film, rendering memorable imagery that resonates with authenticity. The distinctly subdued cinematography adds depth and character to the narrative, complementing the intense performances and minimalistic storytelling. It helps craft Country's visually compelling and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.

The music by Charles Gross is lilting yet melancholic, matching the tone of the film perfectly. The score's haunting melodies echo the despair and determination of the hard-hit farming families, amplifying the movie's emotional gravity without overwhelming the film's stark realism.

In summary, Country is an evocative, critically acclaimed drama centered around the lives of American farmers during the 1980s, painting a poignant picture of their hardships and resilience. With unforgettable performances by Jessica Lange, Sam Shepard, and Wilford Brimley, it provides a profound, empathetic insight into the struggles faced by an often-underrepresented community. Country stands as a cinematic tribute to the unyielding spirit of the farmers facing desperation, reaffirming their dignity in a world that seems disinterested in their plight. It remains a classic piece of socio-political cinema that continues to touch hearts and provoke thought with its evocative storytelling and captivating performances.