It seems like films this year are keeping it real and Wildlife is no exception. Wildlife is about a boy, a fire, his shaky family, and a small town in the 60s. This authentic drama from IFC Films is a beautiful film you have to see.
Carey Mulligan as Jeanette Brinson, Ed Oxenbould as Joe Brinson, and Jake Gyllenhaal as Jerry Brinson in Paul Dano’s WILDLIFE. Courtesy of IFC Films. An IFC Films Release.
About Wildlife
Wildlife follows Joe (Ed Oxenbould), a 14-year-old living in Montana. His mom, Jeanette (Carey Mulligan), takes care of things around the house. His dad, Jerry (Jake Gyllenhaal), works on a golf course. Joe even finds a new friend at school. Things are going pretty okay for Joe until his dad unexpectedly loses his job. Jeanette is forced to look for work as Jerry turns down job offers.
Meanwhile, the town makes preparations for the wildfire burning on the horizon near the border between Montana and Canada. Jerry decides to leave to help tame the flames with the other men headed to help fight the fire. Joe’s home life quickly burns. Joe has no choice but to step up, juggle school and a necessary job, and help his struggling mom.
Carey Mulligan as Jeanette Brinson, and Jake Gyllenhaal as Jerry Brinson in Paul Dano’s WILDLIFE. Courtesy of IFC Films. An IFC Films Release.
Review
Wildlife was a wild look at life. It was a raw look at a family and what can happen when parents drift. Although it focused on Joe’s life, the look at Jeanette’s really showed through. It was interesting to see how her ups and downs in the aftermath of her husband’s choice led to Jeanette making her own choices for once and how those choices impacted Joe.
Like the fire burning in the distance creeping closer to the town, his parent’s choices seem to burn the stability of Joe’s life. Will the relationship between Joe’s parents improve? When will Jerry come home? Can Jeanette really manage things alone? Will Joe be able to help his mom and handle these changes?
Wildlife’s rawness will capture your attention and leave you wanting the best for Joe and his family. Don’t miss this beautiful film!