The Woodsman

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David B A very difficult, but compelling watch. I genuinely believe this may have been Oscar worthy but for the subject matter. Watched this some time ago as part of a film club (watch film go out for beer and curry and discuss.) My reading of the film differed from everyone else, as I did, and still do, believe that several of the minor characters could be seen as existing only in the mind of the central character, representing his own struggles with his offending and rehabilitation. Many, if not all of the supporting roles (both seen and not seen) can be seen as being part of Walter’s internal struggles. Might be utter fantasy on my part, but if you’ve watched it, watch again with this idea in mind- made sense to me at least ! Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 02/12/25 Full Review Gareth v For such a difficult subject matter to make a movie about, this is done in an extremely thoughful manner. This is also one of Kevin Bacon's finest performances. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 06/18/23 Full Review Evan M Good performances. Characters have nuance. However, writers could have done better at raising the stakes. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 04/08/23 Full Review Noel P Impressed that the filmmaker was able to take a character so reprehensible and hated by our society and make him understandable and redeemable. What was even more impressive is that there is never an excuse given for the protagonist to explain away his crimes; as if the director was saying "he did what he did, there's no excuse for it, now let's get on with the story." Great writing, great directing, and Kevin Bacon's best performance. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/22/23 Full Review Kevin K "The Woodsman" is an unflinching and deeply moving exploration of redemption, delivered with extraordinary nuance and vulnerability by Kevin Bacon. Kevin Bacon's portrayal of Walter, a convicted sex offender, is a revelation of raw talent and courage. He imbues the character with a captivating mix of torment, remorse, and fragile hope, creating a deeply complex and empathetic portrayal. Bacon's nuanced performance allows the audience to glimpse the humanity within Walter, evoking a range of emotions that challenge preconceived notions and foster understanding. His commitment to the role is unwavering, making Walter a truly unforgettable character. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 05/25/23 Full Review Tony S At first glance I hardly doubt anyone could tell, that it's based on a play without prior knowledge. Which is a hallmark of a successful adaptation. Even if the movie added a lot of things to drag Walter out of his apartment. It's also on first glance, may give an impression, that it somehow throws a pity party and comes up with a bunch of excuses for the pedophilia. Well, it's not. It is mainly a story about self loathing and mental anguish of a really disturbed man, who knows he has done something horrible and can't move on. The movie has it's own share of quirks for it's plot. If you go by the movie's depiction of a pedophile and their thoughts, then it becomes apparent, that it's not enough to just diddle kids. You need dedicate your entire free time to stalking, watching and actively day dreaming about diddling and then feeling guilty, that you do it, like some chronic masturbator. Which is a quite cartoonish depiction of pedophilia to present. And the second quirks is the hands off approach to three times assailant of little girls being allowed to live across the road from school. That just doesn't happen. I somehow think Sgt. Lucas would see to that. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 01/25/22 Full Review Read all reviews

The Woodsman

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