Skimming other reviews of this film elsewhere, I've seen accusations of slow pacing, bad writing, unrealistic characters… For every reviewer who found the movie amazing, it's almost like that had to be balanced out by someone else who couldn't stand it. Someone will have to balance out my review, then, because I need more films like _Leave No Trace_ in my life. Sometimes, if a movie leaves me wondering what actually happened, it's a sign of incoherent writing, or editing. Other times—as with _Leave No Trace_—it means I wasn't paying close enough attention to the details. And no, I'm definitely _not_ in the segment of moviegoers who would argue that it's the filmmaker's job to _make sure_ I know what's happening. Nothing smacks of "inexperienced director" like hitting me, the viewer, over the head with a plot point several times to _make sure_ I got it. Fortunately there's none of that in _Leave No Trace_. I've been meaning to watch _Winter's Bone_ for some time, but I'll have to bump it up a few slots on the ol' watchlist after seeing this. If the two films share any of the same DNA (and they do, in the form of writer and director Debra Granik), I'll love that one too.¹ I can't get enough of this storytelling technique, where the characters just…exist, and don't stand there explaining what's happening (or what happened before now) for the audience's benefit. Not everyone appreciates this style of "expositionless" storytelling, to be sure. One IMDB reviewer said "it seemed this [movie] had a beginning, beginning and beginning."² But those of us who relish poking fun at the "exposition dumps" traditional screenplays often throw out really love being left to our own interpretations of characters' words and actions. Or at least… I do. This isn't an easy movie to watch, really. I wouldn't throw it up to relax after a hard day. The subject matter gets too deep for that, I think. But it is very much worth the journey. Along with those critical accusations I mentioned earlier, numerous reviewers also called this film insightful, thought-provoking, and uncomfortable. I agree with all of those, at least on some level. Scenes that might seem kind of throwaway at first (the church service, say) always turned out to be plot-relevant in the end. _Leave No Trace_ is slow and quiet at times, but it's never boring. ---- 1. I used to think that the same person writing and directing a film was a sure sign of a mediocre movie, but I've been proven wrong about that many times at this point. Now I just wonder what made me start thinking it… 2. From review by ohajee on IMDB. Permalink: `https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4250151/`

Haunted by the ghosts of his past, a father lives with his daughter in the woods. Things become complicated when the girl becomes a teen and is curious to meet the world. A slow paced movie with a well told story and an outstanding performance by Thomasin McKenzie! Do not expect any action, as you'll be disappointed.

Thomasin Harcourt McKenzie gives a fantastic performance as a daughter who wants to move on and become independent instead of living of the fat of the land with her father. If you enjoyed The Survivalist, Captain Fantastic, Hunt for the Wilderpeople you may like this. There are a few subtle moments that reminded me of Tender Mercies too. It's a very tender film, especially how the couple interact with nature. The focus of the film is on the father daughter relationship arc, and how it changes, and this is key to the films strength as it focuses on the emotion of the strive for independence instead of the chase from the authorities. A really beautiful film. 8/10

This had been on my list for a while, but after being impressed by Thomasin McKenzie in Last Night in Soho, I decided to finally give it a watch. Overall, I was impressed. The acting was generally strong, but what I enjoyed most about this movie were the small details. Whether it was wilderness survival elements or small character moments, the movie just really nailed the little things that make the story/relationships feel real. A couple favorites come to mind: [spoiler](1) establishing how the characters say I Love You without ever having to explain it; (2) Will taking the true or false test; and (3) the scene where Tom asks if she can keep the necklace that she found on the trail[/spoiler]. None of these moments were big plot moments, yet they left a lasting impact. In fact, that's a running theme for the whole movie. This was a unique slice of life story that is more concerned with atmosphere and character than it is with plot. It even feels a bit episodic at some points. I was reminded of Nomadland on more than one occasion, which is certainly a compliment in my opinion. All of that said, the slow/meandering style certainly won't be for everyone and I think the movie struggles to find a satisfying conclusion because of this style. Luckily, this wasn't a deal breaker for me. In the end, a worthwhile watch.

Leave No Trace is a small, quiet and very restrained film, one that moves slowly and that, at times, can feel a bit heavy if you are expecting obvious turns or emotional punches. But its strength lies elsewhere. It is in the minimal gestures, in the looks, and in the delicate relationship it builds between a father and a daughter who live on the margins of almost everything. The film observes its characters with unusual patience. It does not judge, it does not over-explain, and it does not underline emotions. That can work against it at certain moments, when the narration seems to stall, but it is also what gives the film its personality. This is cinema that trusts the viewer and their ability to read what is left unsaid. Thomasin McKenzie is magnificent. Her character grows before our eyes with impressive naturalness, and it is impossible not to notice her. She is no longer just a promise: she has presence, sensitivity, and a quiet strength that stays with you. Watching her here, it is inevitable to recognize her later in other films and feel that there is something special about her. Ben Foster, meanwhile, brings a constant intensity, restrained but always on the verge of overflowing. Debra Granik directs with enormous sensitivity, building a world that feels real, lived-in, almost tactile. The setting, the silences, and the rhythm are as much a part of the story as the characters themselves. It is not an easy film, nor one made for everyone, but it is deeply honest. Leave No Trace does not try to impress; it wants to accompany. And even if it does not always maintain narrative momentum, it leaves a lasting feeling behind, like a farewell spoken in a low voice.