The New World (2005)

In 1607, three ships sailed across the Atlantic to the shores of what became known as Jamestown, Virginia. The arrival of these Europeans changed forever the history of the native people already living peacefully in this fertile country. Writer-director Terrence Malick, who has been waiting 25 years to tell this story, finally gets his chance in the breathtaking epic THE NEW WORLD. Colin Farrell stars as Captain John Smith, a British mutineer facing execution who finds a new purpose and a dangerous love in this new land. Smith falls for the young and beautiful Pocahontas (QOrianka Kilcher, in her first major role), daughter of the Indian chief Powhatan (August Schellenberg), laying the groundwork for trouble ahead. The Indians are both fascinated and frightened of the Europeans, not sure whether they are friend or foe. Suspicion, desire, greed, lust, and power soon combine to make them mortal enemies. Using natural lighting, carefully reconstructed forts (James Fort) and villages (Werowocomoco), realistic weaponry, fabulous makeup and costumes, and even a re-creation of the Algonquin language, Malick has made a majestic historical drama that transports viewers back to early 17th century America. Supplemented by James Horners (BRAVEHEART, TITANIC) lush, percussion-based score and Emmanuel Lubezkis gorgeous photography, especially of night scenes on the river, THE NEW WORLD is a compelling examination of the very beginning of American history, told by a master filmmaker who has made just three previous, highly regarded films (BADLANDS, DAYS OF HEAVEN, THE THIN RED LINE) since 1973.