‘Growth of the Soil’ Review: Norway’s Oscar Entry Is a Robustly Classical, Weatherbeaten Rural Epic
The wind deserves above-the-title billing in “Growth of the Soil” — even in the most serene scenes of Hans Petter Moland’s muscular period epic, you can hear it rattling and wheezing and moaning away in the background, or at the very least, you think you can. The elements are cru
"Growth of the Soil" is a cinematic ode to the unforgiving power of nature, and it's no surprise that Norway has chosen this film as its entry for the Oscars. Director Hans Petter Moland's rural epic is a robustly classical tale that whisks viewers away to a rugged, weathered world where the land is as much a character as the people who till it. The Venice audience, known for its appreciation of art house and international cinema, will likely respond to the film's sweeping landscapes and elemental themes.
The film's focus on the human relationship with the natural world resonates deeply in today's environmentally conscious culture. As concerns about climate change and sustainability continue to grow, "Growth of the Soil" offers a powerful exploration of the interconnectedness of human life and the land. Moland's direction, paired with the cinematography, effectively transports viewers to a bygone era, immersing them in the harsh yet beautiful world of rural Norway.
As the film festival circuit continues, it's worth watching how "Growth of the Soil" fares among critics and audiences. Will its classical approach and environmental themes resonate with Academy voters? Keep an eye on the film's performance in the awards season, particularly in categories like Best International Feature Film. Additionally, fans of period epics and nature-driven storytelling may want to explore Moland's previous work, as well as other films that explore similar themes, such as those by Terrence Malick or Béla Tarr.
Originally reported by variety.com. VeniceNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.