Watch Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace is a 2018 movie directed by Debra Granik and based on the novel "My Abandonment" by Peter Rock. The film follows the story of Will, a veteran suffering from PTSD, who chooses to live in the woods with his teenage daughter, Tom, to escape from the society and its norms. They build a hidden campsite in a public park in Portland, Oregon, where they rely on their survival skills to live off the land, forage for food, and collect rainwater to drink.

Will, portrayed by Ben Foster, is a man of few words, who avoids any interaction with other people and has taught his daughter how to stay hidden and be cautious around strangers. Tom, played by Thomasin McKenzie, is obedient and respectful towards her father but is curious about the outside world and yearns for a normal life. The two of them have a close and loving relationship, but their idyllic existence is jeopardized when they are discovered by the authorities, and their lives are turned upside down.

The movie explores the themes of freedom, survival, love, and the responsibilities that come with parenthood. Will and Tom's unconventional lifestyle raises questions about the value of society, modern life, and the choices we make. The movie portrays Will's struggles with PTSD and how it affects his ability to interact with others and his judgment. It also highlights the challenges that Tom faces as she tries to adapt to a different lifestyle after being isolated from the world for so long.

The performances of the two lead actors are remarkable, with Ben Foster delivering an excellent portrayal of a PTSD-stricken veteran, and Thomasin McKenzie giving a nuanced and compelling portrayal of a young girl trying to find her place in the world. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their relationship feels authentic and moving.

The film's direction and cinematography are impressive, with beautiful shots of the woods and the natural surroundings of the campsite. The score is minimalistic, but effective, with the sounds of nature often taking center stage. Debra Granik has once again proved her ability to make a compelling and thought-provoking film that doesn't rely on conventional storytelling techniques or formulaic plots.

In summary, Leave No Trace is a powerful and moving movie that explores themes of freedom, love, and the struggles of living outside of society's norms. With excellent performances from the two lead actors, stunning cinematography, and a poignant score, this film is a must-see for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking cinema.

Leave No Trace is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 88.