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Rewatched by Maxwell Alexander Patron
First Cow 2019
Probably one of the biggest sins I've ever commited towards cinema is watching "First Cow" in low resolution on a laptop.
This was my introduction into the work of Kelly Reichardt. So basically she has made quite the impact on me with this spectacular piece of art. I feared this would be too slow with not a lot of payoff. Instead, I wast treated to an engaging look into frontier life that is a backdrop to one of the best friendships in film.
Reichardt takes a tender look at the bond between a cook (John Magaro) and a Chinese Immigrant (exceptional Orion Lee) in the early 1800's. They begin stealing milk from the only cow on the frontier to fund their dreams. The director sets up perfectly that these plans are just that "dreams." They are doomed to fail yet we watch their struggles praying for a different outcome. You fall in love with these well rounded characters.
Hats off the the production team who brought this time in history to life. It is grungy and often disgusting but so beautiful to look at. The cinematography captures such mesmorizing details in the wilderness. Reichardt edits the film so you know it moves at the pace she wants. It's never slow or rushing to get to something "interesting." It is the perfect pace.
I seriously can't get over how great the lead characters are in this. They are great company and you see a softer side in a male friendship. The mutual respect is amazing. I wish more films were like "First Cow."
A24 is the Best Studio.