Nebraska

Convinced he has won $1,000,000, Woody Grant (Bruce Dern) sets out from his home in Montana and heads to Nebraska in order to claim his winnings. Begrudgingly accompanied by his son David (Will Forte) after refusing to believe that he could be falling for a scam and attempting to walk to Nebraska by himself, the two embark on the 800 mile road trip. When Woody and David stop in the town where Woody grew up, word of his winnings spreads and residents – many of whom are owed money by Woody – are quick to reintroduce themselves in the hopes of seeing a portion of the prize money.

Nebraska ties together both straight drama and melancholy comedy. The excellent acting by the cast, especially that of Bruce Dern, who rightfully won an award for Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival for his role, allows for a brilliant exploration of the father and son bond between Woody and David as they travel towards Nebraska as well as several great exchanges between Woody and his wife Kate (June Squibb). Presented in black and white, the film is beautifully shot, offering views of vast sweeping landscapes as father and son travel along the road trip.

Charming from start to finish, Nebraska is an affectionate comedy drama with something for fans of both genres to enjoy.

Andy Smart