The World to Come

The World to Come, released in 2020, is an exquisitely crafted period drama set in the 19th century on the Eastern American frontier. This film, directed by Mona Fastvold, features captivating performances from Katherine Waterston, Vanessa Kirby, Casey Affleck, and Christopher Abbott that tap into the heart of human emotions. The World to Come is a story of resilience and connection, brought to life with impeccable craftsmanship, design, and storytelling.

The narrative revolves around two neighboring couples battling the hardships and isolation of frontier life. Katherine Waterston plays the role of Abigail, an introspective farmer's wife, who records her life and thoughts meticulously in a daily journal. Casey Affleck plays her husband, Dyer, who is equally worn down by the relentless winter and the recent loss they have experienced. The harsh, bleak and unforgiving landscape is captured stunningly on screen, setting the tone of a hard, cold, and isolating life for the settlers.

One day, Tallie (Vanessa Kirby) and Finney (Christopher Abbott) arrive as new settlers, sparking a transformative friendship that fills the rest of the script. Tallie, with her fiery red hair and independent streak, is immediately fascinating, not just to Abigail, but also to the audience. The women find solace in each other's presence, stoking an emotional connection that takes root in their desolate surroundings, providing much needed warmth and companionship. Casey Affleck and Christopher Abbott also deliver compelling performances, revealing equal parts vulnerability and stoicism in their portrayal of frontier men.

The World to Come is a film deeply rooted in its time and place. It offers an immersive experience of frontier life, with detailed set designs and costuming that place viewers into the daily routines of a 19th-century American homestead. Furthermore, the film is visually stunning, with its breathtaking, desolate landscapes serving as spellbinding backdrops to the intimate drama unfolding within the confines of the characters' homes and hearts. The cinematography is exceptional, bringing the rugged, icy world of the frontiers to life, encapsulating both its harsh realities and its stark beauty.

The dialogues, written by Ron Hansen and Jim Shepard, are poetic and contemplative in nature, mirroring Abigail's diary entries, providing viewers insights into her introspective nature. The narrative intricately explores themes of love, grief, solitude, and the human yearning for connection. It does so with compelling delicacy and intensity, touching the audience deeply.

One outstanding aspect of The World to Come is its exploration of female companionship and emotional resilience amidst hardship. The film examines the deep, complex bond that forms between Abigail and Tallie, capturing the nuances of their relationship with subtlety and sensitivity. Without overtly displaying their kinship and affection, the narrative allows the audience to feel the depth and intensity of their bond. The characters' expressively performed silent moments contribute immensely to the storytelling, resulting in a compelling viewing experience.

Additionally, composer Daniel Blumberg's atmospheric score enhances the narrative scope of the film. The music serenely complements the plot's evolution, effectively evoking the myriad emotions that the characters grapple with. This superbly scored soundscape forms an integral part of the movie, contributing to its overall impact.

In a nutshell, The World to Come is a profound exploration of love, loss, and the human capacity for connection and resilience. Its evocative narrative, brought to life by a talented ensemble of actors and paired with impeccable cinematic craftsmanship, offers an unforgettable viewing experience. Whether it is the harsh, cold environment of the frontier or the warm intimacy of human connections, Fastvold's film manages to immerse viewers into a world that has long since passed but into sentiments that are fundamentally human.