News of The World

 

       

     This new western by director and screenwriter (with Luke Davies) Paul Greengrass stars Tom Hanks as Captain Jefferson Kidd. Mr. Hanks is his usual noble, caring, self which is perfect, as a father figure to the young girl he escorts through hostile territory in the west of 1870.

       With the end of the Civil War, Captain Kidd supports himself traveling from town to town reciting to the masses, the news of the day culled from various newspapers he collects. One day he comes across a young orphaned girl dressed in Buckskin and speaking in Kiowa.  When no one else wants the responsibility of caring for the child, Kidd takes it upon himself to guide the girl safely to her relatives.

       The young girl is played by newcomer Helena Zengal and she is wonderful. The entire film rests on their relationship and she more than holds her own against Mr. Hanks.  Their chemistry together is terrific. And credit of course, also goes to Mr. Greengrass for his purposeful direction. The acting is all very sincere and while it follows a stereotypical western setting, with an ending you can see coming (five minutes into the film), it still works due to Mr. Hanks and Ms. Zengal.

       Along with the deft direction, the cinematography is excellent. The New Mexico landscapes are breathtaking. There is the usual assortment of dangers along the journey and even some surprises. The familiar supporting cast of Bill Camp, Elizabeth Marvel, Ray McKinnon, and Mare Winningham are all short cameos but they are all still appreciated.

       While not ranked one of his best, Mr. Hanks still elevates to film to an enjoyable level. The film is out now and available on VOD.