Nomadland (2020)

The closing down of a gypsum plant also shuttered the town -- Empire -- in which its workers lived. This is the story of Fern, who was pushed from her home there and into a life on the road as a "Nomad." Though she didn't choose the life initially, she has done exactly that by the end of the movie.

This film wouldn't work without Frances McDormand: her silences are full of meaning, which is a good thing since there are quite a few silences throughout. But the actual nomads who flesh out the cast are what really bring this film to life. They aren't sad people who need pity; they've adapted to their lifestyle and have built a family out of their community.

I was reminded of the British film Hector while watching this. The big difference between the two is that Britain has a health system that cares for its homeless. The lives of Nomads would be much more secure if they had a place to go when hurt or ill & I wish that Nomadland had covered that eventuality.

B