Nomadland

Nomadland is a poignant and contemplative film directed by Chloé Zhao, based on the non-fiction book "Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century" by Jessica Bruder. The movie follows the life of Fern, played by Frances McDormand, a widow in her sixties who finds herself displaced and financially struggling after the devastating effects of the Great Recession on the US economy. Her husband passes away, and as she receives a life-insurance payment of $100,000, she decides to use the money to purchase a used van to live out of and travel across the American West. As Fern embarks on this journey, she leaves behind the comforts and familiarity of her fixed home in the small town of Empire, Nevada, and ventures into the unknown, taking on various temporary jobs, and interacting with an array of eclectic characters along the way. Among others, she meets Sue, a spirited woman who invites her to a gathering with other nomads, and David, a man who works as a laborer, but lives in his van. Fern, however, does have to endure hardships and learn to adapt in her nomadic lifestyle, as she experiences the beauty of the American landscape, but also faces the harsh realities of loneliness, poverty, and isolation. As she travels through California, Arizona, and Oregon, Fern discovers that the van allows her the freedom to explore and experience the world, but also leaves her to face the isolation of living without a fixed home. The film beautifully portrays Fern's journey, highlighting both the exhilaration and the hardships of her travels, showcasing the resilience and resourcefulness of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Along the way, she comes across various individuals and groups of nomads who have chosen this lifestyle for different reasons, whether it's financial instability, a desire for freedom, or simply to live life on their own terms. The film raises important questions about the American Dream and its ideals, specifically for older adults who have been left behind by economic shifts and social changes. As Fern experiences the harsh realities of nomadism, she also starts to uncover a new sense of identity and belonging, finding solace in the nomadic community she encounters. Fern begins to realize that her life is not defined by her possessions or her home but by her own resilience, adaptability, and the connections she makes with others. The performances in the film are exceptional, particularly that of Frances McDormand, who perfectly captures the complexity and vulnerability of Fern's character. The cinematography, too, is evocative and breathtaking, capturing the stunning landscapes of the American West, and conveying the sense of freedom and confinement that Fern experiences in her travels. One of the standout aspects of Nomadland is its thoughtful and authentic portrayal of the nomadic lifestyle, drawing from the real-life experiences of individuals who have had to live in their vans and rely on temporary work to survive. By doing so, the film sheds light on the harsh realities faced by these individuals, highlighting the economic and social realities that have led to their displacement. Ultimately, Nomadland is a movie about resilience, hope, and the human spirit's ability to persevere in the face of adversity. As Fern continues her journey, the film becomes a poignant exploration of what it means to find identity, belonging, and purpose in a world where the American Dream seems increasingly out of reach. By the end of the film, Fern's narrative has become a powerful metaphor for those who have been left behind by economic and social shifts, and serves as a testament to the power of human connection and solidarity in the face of adversity.