like Murnau's SUNRISE for the New Hollywood. you don't need to look too hard to see the broad shape of the period melodrama Paramount probably thought they were making. still dumbstruck by how well it hangs together and it's so lean. Malick's taking only what he needs and remains surprisingly generous to his cast. there's not a single false performance here.

it was my introduction to Malick as a teenager watching on a 27 inch tv in the basement and i think it'll always be my favorite.