Plot: What’s it about?
John Smith (Colin Farrell) is en route to a new world, an unexplored land where adventure and danger abound. But he isn’t as excited as he might be, since he has spent the journey imprisoned, thanks to some remarks he made that sounded treasonous. Once the three ships in the formation dock in this new land, Smith is freed in order to help explore this unknown world. Captain Newport (Christopher Plummer) leads the expedition, but after a slow start, he returns to England. In his absence, Captain Wingfield (David Thewlis) assumes command and Smith winds up second in command. As Smith explores the local rivers, he is joined by some crew members and a couple of captured natives. But when one of the natives escapes, the trek turns even more dangerous and the Smith winds up captured by other natives. He is taken back to the tribe and is to be put to death, but the word of the chief’s daughter (Q’Orkiana Kilcher) spares his life. She asks her father for mercy and he agrees, so Smith is kept as a prisoner. As time passes, Smith becomes more and more interested in their culture, but what does the future hold for both Smith and the tribe?
I didn’t see any previews for this movie, so I assumed The New World was related to Columbus, but that isn’t the case. This is the tale of Pocahantas and John Smith, but not the version you’re probably used to, this is a more realistic take. In fact, we never hear the name Pochantas and the romance between the two is not explosive, as we’ve seen and heard elsewhere. Instead, we have a grounded and believable approach, in which two very different cultures interact for the first time. In other words, this is not the typical Hollywood model, with melodrama and dramatic effect, this is more natural and in my opinion, more effective. The focus is on Pocahantas, as she serves as a bridge between the two worlds. Q’Orianka Kilcher is quite good in the role, with a kind of empathy that is easy to believe. Her costars have more name value, but she outshines them, though Colin Farrell, Christian Bale, and Christopher Plummer all handle their roles well. I found The New World to be much better than I had expected, thanks to director Terrence Malick’s genuine approach. So if you’re in the mood for a good drama, then The New World is recommended.
Video: How does it look?
The New World is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen. This is a beautiful film, so I am pleased it has been given a more than suitable presentation. The print looks good, as it should for a movie this young, with no serious flaws to report. The visuals have a sharp presence, as detail is high throughout and softness never proves to be a concern. The colors remain mostly within a natural scope, with lush greens and deep browns, as the material dictates. No problems with contrast either, as black levels come across as crisp and well balanced at all times. This movie needs to look good, as the visuals are so well crafted, so New Line deserves some kudos for this great looking effort.
Audio: How does it sound?
This is not really an action movie, but that doesn’t mean the soundtrack can’t be good, as evidenced by the included Dolby Digital 5.1 surround option. The movie does have a fair share of more action slanted scenes and those sound terrific here, with power and presence. Not the same kind you’d find in a sci/fi or all out action flick, but a natural, immersive overall design. The surrounds are used often and not just for action, as dialogue sounds good and overall atmosphere is solid. Not as creative and immersive as it could be at times, but effective and in the end, that is all that matters. This disc also includes a 2.0 surround option, as well as subtitles in English and Spanish.
Supplements: What are the extras?
A collection of ten featurettes outlines the behind the scenes process, but even as a whole, they aren’t that substantial. Even so, I am glad some material was offered and while mostly promotional in nature, you can still learn some information about the production.
