BY MICHAEL GOODPASTER
I remember seeing the trailer for Promised Land and being mildly curious. It seemed like a movie that George Clooney would have done if he wanted. It’s one of those blue collar “smart dramas” that he seems to crank out that the award voters just cream themselves over. Needless to say, I wasn’t impressed. Then I noticed a few things. It’s directed by Gus Van Sant, I like him! Matt Damon and John Krasinski are in it, I dig them too! So I’m worn down a little and I decide to give it a fair chance. The movie revolves around Matt Damon and Frances McDormand going to a small town to get them to sign off on oil drilling on their land in exchange for big money. John Krasinski shows up and reveals why it’s a bad idea. There is some back and forth and eventually an ending. The movie tugs at your brain and your emotions. It doesn’t paint a clear cut winner, but it makes a strong point in one way. What way? That’s for the viewer to decide. That’s what I appreciated the most about this movie, it doesn’t spoon feed you anything. You’re left to make up your own mind and what shade of grey you associate with the most. The performances were all pretty good, but Matt Damon stood out. He did a great job as the lead. If you have the time for a serious drama and like the people involved then I recommend it. If you’re looking to be entertained, keep drilling. B+
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