That Evening Sun

That Evening Sun is a tasteful southern narrative drama, released in 2009, and equipped with a powerful cast. The film introduces us to Abner Meecham, engagingly depicted by Oscar-nominated actor Hal Holbrook, whose performance is both stark and heart-tugging as the main protagonist. He's complemented by Barlow Jacobs and Mia Wasikowska, who provide exceptional supporting performances that add depth and vivacity to this widely acclaimed picture.

Set against the backdrop of rural Tennessee, That Evening Sun presents itself as an exploration of old age, regrets, and, most importantly, the pursuit of justice and dignity. The narrative centers around Abner, an 80-year-old farmer and retired war veteran, who escapes the confines of a nursing home, only to find that his lifelong family farm has been leased to the obstinate and arrogant Lonzo Choat (played by Barlow Jacobs) by his lawyer son, Paul Meecham (Walton Goggins). Abner is unwilling to accept this and decides to reoccupy his ancestral farmhouse.

Resolved to reclaim his home, Abner takes residence in his old tenant shack and, from here, the story of That Evening Sun unfolds revealing a complex human drama filled with emotional conflicts, regrets, and hard-learned truths. Abner and Lonzo clash throughout the film, weaving together a plot that feels intrinsically grounded in human emotion, strong-willed pride, and stubbornness.

Introducing another layer to the narrative is Lonzo's daughter Pamela, portrayed brilliantly by Mia Wasikowska, well-known for her roles in productions like Alice in Wonderland and Jane Eyre. Playing a teenager trapped between her loyalty to her inept and abusive father and her regard for the old, indomitable farmer next door, Wasikowska brings forward a soft counterpoint to the fiery antagonism between Abner and Lonzo.

The on-screen interactions and dialogue create a realistic portrayal of these clashes of wills, beautifully enhanced by the director, Scott Teems', skillful delivery and conscious effort to ensure an authentic depiction of life in the South. Long sweeping shots of the lush countryside, the last warm rays of the sun casting long shadows on the landscapes, and the quiet stillness of rural life all contribute to this nuanced cinematic experience.

Scott Teems, both the writer and director of That Evening Sun, tells the story with exquisite care and attention to detail. He lets the narrative simmer and then boil over at a natural pace, allowing the audience to be absorbed by the characters' depth and the plot. Teems excellently adapted the film from a short story "I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down" by William Gay, embodying the sprawling, unhurried nature of storytelling native to the South. It's not a story that's told in a rush, but one that allows viewers to draw profound insights regarding aging, home, family, personal justice, and generational differences - all within the cyclic nature of life.

Narrating the film with a brave and purposeful narrative, Hal Holbrook's performance subsequently received critical acclaim. Riveting and realistic, he embodies the courage and tenacity of the elderly, who despite their physical frailness, maintain an unyielding spirit. He impeccably portrays the determination of a man fighting to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his until the very end. Holbrook's portrayal of Abner alone is a convincing reason to watch That Evening Sun.

Overall, That Evening Sun is an emotionally stirring yet understated film that delves into the complexity of life, relationships, and the inherent human yearning for a sense of belonging and home. Its slow-burn atmosphere, brimming with Southern charm and melancholy, is especially well rendered. Its skillful direction and captivating performances, alongside its pristine depictions of rural Tennessee, all work together to create an immersive, evocative cinema experience, easily hooking viewers from start to finish. It's a movie not just for those who love compelling dramas but also for anyone who appreciates finely crafted cinema.

The film is a poignant testament to life's obscurities, pain, and joy – underscoring that it is never too late to fight for one's rights, regain dignity, and revisit the remnants of an era gone by.