On Sunday, I watched Kelly Reichardt's Old Joy at the Los Angeles Film Festival. Thus far, this has been one of the most unusual films I've seen all year. I'm not talking about bizarre camera angles or special photographic effects. What's unusual about this well-acted (by Daniel London and Will Oldham), beautifully photographed (by Peter Sillen), and carefully directed slice of real life is its pacing. Without ever becoming tedious, the narrative flows at such a leisurely rhythm that at times I was having trouble staying awake. I repeat: I wasn't bored. But watching two Portland friends (and a dog named Lucy) go on a hiking trip to Oregon's rain forest in order to relax in the local hot springs felt so real that I began feeling as at ease with life as Lucy. If you're looking for a Zen experience at the movies, Old Joy will definitely provide it. Yo La Tengo's score, by the way, is excellent.
In the fall, Kino will be releasing Old Joy in the U.S., including at New York City's Film Forum.
A beautiful film. Serene, peaceful, profound.