There are some who will find Malick's most recent masterpiece, A Hidden Life, to be tedious -- and there is no fault in that. The film is long, and, as with Malick's many other beauties, the story comes second to the artistry through which the story is told. The medium is the message here.
This fact may seem counter-intuitive when the story is of one of such cultural significance -- a peasant farmer, Franz, puts life and family on the line in favor of his personal faith and ethics, when he refuses to swear loyalty to Hitler.
Through beautiful shots, that on their own could be masterful photographs, Malick tells the story of a faith so pure that there appears to alternative other than the choice Franz has made. And yet, this film is not pious. It is a simple story, about a simple man with simple faith, who makes a simple choice of profound significance.
If you appreciate costuming, soundtracks, and cinematography, you will appreciate this film. If you care only about story, you will likely find this film to be beautiful but a drag.
Review of A Hidden Life
