An American drama; A story about an man has lost his life, and a childhood friend who has been charged with taking it. An investigation is launched and a trial begins. This is a rich story which reveals truth through flashbacks and overlaps where themes and motivations come to light and they intersperse with the film's plot. The editing and photography is carefully produced and echoes the themes to produce a memorable technique of storytelling. The forest as a device for a theme makes the film evocative as do the locations and weather. The lead character is an observer to the plot, allowing the story to take flight. The acting is terrific for its delicate characterisation. Max Von Sidow and his worldly wisdom is played to perfection. If there is a criticism it may come in the structure which is sometimes clunky but this is for the benefit of brevity and the need to be succinct - the film avoids dragging its heels.
Review of Snow Falling on Cedars
