NOMADLAND

NOMADLAND stars Frances McDormand as Fern, a widower nearing retirement who can't make ends meet by taking early social security. She lived in Empire, Nevada with her husband until 2011, where the film begins, until his death and the closing of the plant. Fern works odd end and seasonal jobs while traveling to support herself. She lives in her van and travels around the country from Nevada, to Arizona, to South Dakota, and California. At first, with this being so close to the market collapse of 2008, the viewer may believe this is a film dealing with classism in America and the capitalistic exploitation of its workers; however, that notion is quickly dispelled as we follow Fern and her friends from community to community. It's actually a very touching tale about these communities that society has forgotten about. It's very much a commune where individuals band together like family members, are welcomed and invited, and help each other survive. It also explores the hurdles some of these individuals must overcome in order to do the most mundane of tasks, like getting a flat tire fixed and other inconveniences that we take for granted but is a real struggle for them. McDormand brings a lot of life to Fern and while her performance does stand out, it isn't her best work and even if she's nominated for an Oscar, I'd be surprised if she won for this performance. Other than that, there's nothing much else here. 5/10