In the wake of multiple long-running wars in the Middle East, the last decade of American cinema has frequently dealt with the lives of returning veterans in a country that doesn’t offer much.Some movies successfully filter that idea through the crime thriller genre – Michael Bay’s ambulance is one of the standout examples of a recent film in which an ex-soldier uses his skills to commit crime. But if you’re looking for something a little less high-octane, look no further. leave no traceexits Netflix on July 4th.
Masterpiece from Oscar-nominated writer and director Debra Granik (Winter’s Bone), leave no trace is also The most reviewed movie with 100% approval on Rotten Tomatoes,Defeated toy story 2. I don’t invest much in Rotten Tomatoes, but this one costs a lot of money.
leave no trace It follows PTSD veteran Will (Ben Foster) and his teenage daughter Tom (Thomasin Mackenzie). The two live off the land in a public forest reserve outside Portland, protect themselves and enjoy a peaceful life together. But when they spot them while jogging, park rangers and social services intervene and their lives are turned upside down.
Image: Bleecker Street Media
![In Leave No Trace, Thomasin Mackenzie and Ben Foster walk through a lush forest with their backs to the camera.](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/c_e9mCJuCGLyu7AFHI5dOeFGkCk=/0x0:1280x688/1200x0/filters:focal(0x0:1280x688):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24758615/Leave_No_Trace_033.jpg)
Image: Bleecker Street Media
A thoughtful and deeply sensitive tale of family, trauma, community and responsibility. leave no trace It shines a spotlight on people on the fringes of society. The film is underpinned by great acting that draws the viewer into the central relationship between father and daughter. Foster is always reliable with his troubled yet quiet intensity, and Mackenzie shines as the wise Tom of his age. Rich cinematography brings the greenery of the Pacific Northwest forest to life.
leave no trace This is one of my favorite movies of the century, and it may be one of your favorite movies now. Be sure to watch it before it ends on Netflix on July 4th. The film is also available to watch for free with your library card on Hoopla or Kanopy, and is also available for digital rental or purchase if you access this recommendation after that time. Amazon, Apple TVand Vudu.