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The films of notoriously un-prolific director Terrence Malick (four films in four decades) have always been divisive; what one viewer sees as visual poetry, another finds coma-inducingly slow. The New World, which retells the story of Pocahontas and the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia, has proven to be Malick's most opinion-splitting work yet. Now the film has received the extended/director's cut treatment, bolstering its runtime by over 35 minutes so that it now approaches the three hour mark. In fact this is the film's third version; Malick withdrew the film upon its initial release and shortened it by 15 minutes, which has been its most widely seen form to this point. Some may grumble that its shorter cut was already a good two hours too long, but for those who discovered the beauty and emotion in the earlier edition will find plenty more to savour here.
Few could argue that the film is absolutely breathtakingly stunning to look at. Making maximum use of the filming locations, which were within spitting distance of where the actual events took place, and the rare chance to use 65mm film stock, this is a film that would merit being shown in an art gallery (for Blu-ray users, buying this on the high-def format is a must). The film comprehensively shuns the tyranny of narrative, taking numerous aimless digressions, and often cutting apparently at random between shots that seem to have no apparent connection. Similarly to The Thin Red Line, The New World is as much about the land and nature as its apparent plot. Malick utilises the filmic medium in a way that is unique to him, constructing meaning and context by juxtaposing images in an almost Eisensteinian manner. But the film is elevated beyond a cold technical accomplishment with a real sense of passion and feeling. It is a love story with true heart.
For many, the glacial pacing is an insurmountable problem, and one that will only be exacerbated in this elongated incarnation. Also the way in which the narrative (if it can be called that) is delivered, mainly through mumbly voiceover and subtle physical behaviour, will be too obtuse and abstract for fans of more mainstream fare. The performances are uniformly low-key and naturalistic, which may be confused with being one-note, but the lack of histrionics is one of the film's real strengths. Colin Farrell makes for a very introspective John Smith, and shares a tender bond with the extraordinary Q'Orianka Kilcher as Pocahontas (who is never actually named in the film). Kilcher was only 15 at the time of shooting but she is a remarkable find, and her disarming charm eliminates any potential for creepiness in the relationship. Late in the film, Smith departs from proceedings, to be replaced by Christian Bale's John Rolfe. Bale gives his usual grim intensity a rest and reveals a hereto-unseen warmth.
In a modern society where film viewers demand instant gratification, it's a wonder that a film like The New World even exists. It is a film that demands an open mind, that requests that the spectator submits to its languid pacing and majestic beauty rather than waiting to be entertained. For a receptive viewer, the film proves to be a mesmerising and captivating odyssey, and for fans of the film this extended cut is a worthy upgrade. Unlike so many longer DVD versions that are little more than marketing tools, this is a comprehensive reconstruction of the film, with barely a scene completely unaltered. The cumulative effect is that it's a more absorbing and moving affair, if slightly indulgently slow, that improves on an already excellent original. Now can we have that 5-hour cut of The Thin Red Line please, Mr. Malick?
The extras
With little space left on the disc, there are just two trailers. Seek out the original DVD or the Blu-ray for an excellent Making Of documentary.
The summary
An experience rather than a mere film, The New World is a work of rare lyrical beauty. Typically for Malick, though, it's an acquired taste.
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