Nomadland

I am a blubbering mess on my couch. What a beautiful, meditative character study. Frances McDormand is a knock out. I had to keep reminding myself that this was a narrative feature rather than a documentary. Chloé Zhao has an incredible gift for story so deeply emotional and grounded in empathy, that it feels like she is this incredible mash-up of social worker, therapist and director all rolled into one. I love that Zhao is so passionate about sharing the stories of those who live their lives on the fringes. Most importantly, I applaud her ability to tell these stories in a respectful, compassionate manner. While Nomadland is devastating, it never feels exploitative or judgmental. Transience and homelessness amongst the working poor is so rarely depicted in mainstream media. Films like Nomadland and filmmakers like Zhao can be real forces for good in raising awareness about important issues. I sincerely hope the much deserved accolades and positive reception the film receives will inspire viewers to do something. No one should have to spend their 60s and 70s driving around in a van searching for temporary work, wondering how they’ll make it through another day.