Far and Away (1992)

Introduction
"Far and Away" is a 1992 dramatic romance film directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman. Embed in the late 19th century, the motion picture offers us a glimpse into the lives of Irish immigrants seeking a much better future in America.

Plot
The film begins in Ireland where Joseph Donnelly (Tom Cruise), a poor renter farmer, blames his household's misfortunes on his property owner, Daniel Christie. After his father dies in a dispute with Christie's males, Joseph looks for vengeance, however his attempt comes a cropper. Shannon Christie (Nicole Kidman), Daniel's child, imagine owning land in America and is captivated by Joseph's spirit. She proposes they run away to America together, and she'll fund their journey with taken loot from her parents.

Escape to America
The set escape Ireland, landing in Boston with imagine starting once again. Nevertheless, the reality of immigrant life is far from their expectations. Poverty-stricken, they are required to work routine tasks to make it through with Shannon working as a chicken-plucker and Joseph as a pit fighter. The severe living conditions take a toll on Shannon's health, leading to her falling ill. Meanwhile, Joseph's expertise in boxing draws in the attention of a rich high society lady, who offers him a place in her home.

Newfound Separation
Joseph, believing that Shannon wants to return to her upscale Irish lifestyle, accepts the sophisticated woman's offer, leading to his rise in society's ranks while Shannon, recovered from her illness, is taken in by the Christies who have also immigrated to America. The separation triggers a newfound appreciation for each other, and when they eventually reunite at a ball, they admit their love for one another.

The Land Race
News breaks out about the Oklahoma Land Race where the government is set to open new land for ownership. Determined to satisfy their initial dream, Shannon and Joseph start the journey towards Oklahoma. However, they are up versus threats, as the land race is a hazardous event with lots of excited homesteaders getting involved.

Climax
The motion picture reaches a psychological climax as Joseph gets injured and is presumed dead throughout the Land Race, however he amazingly survives and claims a piece of land in Shannon's name after an intense horse race. The movie concludes on a hopeful note, symbolising the struggles and benefits of the American dream, as Shannon and Joseph accept their love for each other on their newly found land.

Overall Themes and Impression
Through this historical-drama love, the movie checks out styles of love, ambition, poverty, resilience, and most importantly, the pursuit of the American dream. The movie highlights the challenges of immigrants throughout the period, while at the same time revealing the hope that drove them forward. With fascinating efficiencies from Kidman and Cruise, "Far and Away" paints a poignant and visually-stunning portrait of the immigrant experience in the late 19th century. It might have its fair share of critics, however it can't be denied the movie acts as a robust tale about pursuing one's dreams against all odds.

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