Chloé Zhao, the Academy Award-winning director behind the critically acclaimed *Nomadland* and Marvel's *Eternals*, possesses a unique cinematic voice. Her films, characterized by a profound empathy for her subjects and a breathtaking visual style, often evoke comparisons to other auteurs, most notably Terrence Malick. While seemingly disparate at first glance – Zhao’s grounded realism contrasting with Malick’s ethereal lyricism – a closer examination reveals a shared lineage in their approach to storytelling, their exploration of spirituality, and their profound engagement with the natural world. This exploration will delve into Zhao’s own reflections on Malick's work, particularly his epic reimagining of the Pocahontas story, *The New World*, and how it has influenced her distinctive filmmaking style.
Under the Influence: Chloé Zhao on *The New World
Zhao's admiration for Malick is evident in numerous interviews and analyses of her work. While direct quotes specifically referencing *The New World* might be scarce, the influence is palpable. Her films, like Malick's, often prioritize mood and atmosphere over conventional narrative structure. The slow, contemplative pacing, the emphasis on visual poetry, and the exploration of existential themes all resonate with Malick's signature style. *The New World*, with its visually stunning depiction of the early American landscape and its ambiguous portrayal of the relationship between John Smith and Pocahontas, provides a compelling example of this aesthetic. Zhao, in her own work, consistently creates a similar sense of awe and wonder through her meticulous attention to location and her ability to capture the quiet beauty of everyday life.
Director Chloé Zhao Offers a Thorough Breakdown of… (Malick's Techniques)
While Zhao hasn't explicitly offered a "thorough breakdown" of *The New World* in a single interview, we can piece together her likely appreciation of Malick's techniques by examining her own directorial choices. Consider the use of non-professional actors in both Zhao's and Malick's films. In *The Rider*, Zhao employed Brady Jandreau, a real-life rodeo rider, to play a version of himself. This approach mirrors Malick's use of non-actors in *The New World*, lending a sense of authenticity and rawness to the performances. This commitment to realism, however, doesn't preclude the poetic and spiritual elements that permeate both filmmakers' works. The landscapes in Zhao's films, much like those in *The New World*, become characters in themselves, reflecting the inner lives of the protagonists and contributing to the overall emotional impact of the story.
Chloé Zhao Says Zack Snyder’s ‘Man Of Steel’ Feels… (Like a Counterpoint to Malick's Style)
Interestingly, Zhao's comments on Zack Snyder's *Man of Steel* might offer insight into her preference for Malick's more nuanced approach. While she hasn't directly compared Snyder's style to Malick's, the contrast is telling. Snyder's films are known for their visual spectacle and action-packed sequences, while Malick's and Zhao's films prioritize introspection and contemplative pacing. This suggests Zhao's attraction to Malick's emphasis on subtle emotional depth and character development over bombastic action. The quiet power of observation, a hallmark of both Malick and Zhao's work, stands in stark contrast to Snyder's more overtly dramatic style.
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