Country (1984)

Country Poster

Jewell and Gil are farmers. They seem to be working against the odds, producing no financial surplus. Gil has lost hope of ever becoming prosperous, but Jewell decides to fight for her family.

Film Overview
"Country" released in 1984 is an American drama movie directed by Richard Pearce, embeded in the rural setting of America's heartland throughout the turmoil of the mid-80s farm crisis. The film, written by William D. Wittliff, stars Jessica Lange, Sam Shepard, and Matt Clark. Jessica Lange not only played an important role in the motion picture but was also one of the manufacturers. The function brought Lange an Academy Award nomination.

Plot Synopsis
The film revolves around the lives of the Ivy family, a typical American farming household making up Jewell Ivy (Jessica Lange), her partner Gilbert (Sam Shepard), and their two children. They are committed to their land and farm, making every possible effort to preserve it. Regrettably, they discover themselves in a gripping financial crisis during the extensive economic downturn that swept through America's farming communities in the 1980s.

The essence of the story depends on the household's struggle to save their farm, which is under danger of foreclosure by the bank, matching the reality of lots of American farming families who lost their land during this duration. Gilbert, not able to cope with installing pressures, deserts the family, leaving Jewell to combat for their survival.

Characterization and Performances
Lange's representation of a durable, figured out female in the face of adversity forms the backbone of the narrative. Regardless of several obstacles, Jewell keeps defending their land, rallying fellow farmers to challenge the authorities requiring their rights. Lange's function in "Country" was valued extensively, making her Oscar and Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.

On the other hand, Shepard shines in his role as a proud, persistent guy overwhelmed by his failure to provide for his household and keep his ancestral land. His function effectively complements Lange's character, representing the farmer's predicament during these bumpy rides.

Styles and Reception
"Country" is especially an elaboration on the struggles that farmers face due to unforeseeable weather condition, changing markets, and unresponsive government policies. The movie reviews the socio-economic conditions of the era, where, numerous American farmers were forced into insolvency, causing the loss of their ancestral lands.

The film got typically positive reviews from critics and audiences, praising Lange's strong efficiency and the motion picture's realistic representation of the American farming neighborhood. It was chosen for two Academy Awards, consisting of Best Actress for Lange and Best Original Screenplay.

Conclusion
In the end, "Country" is an effective household drama that deeply resonates with the severe realities of farm life and the American farm crisis. It elegantly depicts the immense pressures experienced by farming neighborhoods, their familial bonds, and their decision to hold onto their land and income in spite of tremendous obstacles. Although the dire circumstance of America's farming community takes center stage, the film also crams in its share of psychological scenes with adequate heat and humor, providing a total human touch to this significant tale.

Top Cast

  • Jessica Lange (small)
    Jessica Lange
    Jewell Ivy
  • Sam Shepard (small)
    Sam Shepard
    Gil Ivy
  • Wilford Brimley (small)
    Wilford Brimley
    Otis
  • Matt Clark (small)
    Matt Clark
    Tom McMullen
  • Theresa Graham
    Marlene Ivy
  • Levi L. Knebel
    Carlisle Ivy
  • Jim Haynie (small)
    Jim Haynie
    Arlon Brewer
  • Sandra Seacat
    Louise Brewer
  • Alex Harvey
    Fordyce, FHA Man
  • Stephanie-Stacy Poyner
    Missy Ivy
  • Jim Ostercamp
    Cowboy