

River of Fundament
Visionary artist Matthew Barney returns to cinema with this 3-part epic, a radical reinvention of Norman Mailer’s novel Ancient Evenings. In collaboration with composer Jonathan Bepler, Barney combines traditional modes of narrative cinema with filmed elements of performance, sculpture, and opera, reconstructing Mailer’s hypersexual story of Egyptian gods and the seven stages of reincarnation, alongside the rise and fall of the American car industry.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1970s Oregon, a woman works as a lawyer navigating personal and professional challenges. She struggles to find her footing in a male-dominated legal field while also dealing with the complexities of her relationships, particularly her marriage and a budding romance. The film offers a nuanced portrayal of her internal life and the subtle ways she asserts her independence.
Critical Reception
Kelly Reichardt's "Certain Women" (initially titled "River of Fundament" during production) was lauded by critics for its minimalist aesthetic, deliberate pacing, and subtle character studies. The film was praised for its atmospheric portrayal of life in Montana and its understated performances, though some found its slow pace and ambiguity challenging.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its quiet, observational style and authentic depiction of rural life.
- Michelle Williams and Kristen Stewart deliver nuanced, understated performances.
- The film's deliberate pacing and ambiguity were seen as both a strength and a potential drawback.
Google audience: Audience reviews highlight appreciation for the film's atmospheric storytelling and authentic characters, with many finding the slow burn and subtle emotional arcs compelling. However, some viewers found the plot meandering and the lack of a strong narrative drive less engaging.
Awards & Accolades
Screened at the Sundance Film Festival and the Berlin International Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film was originally titled 'River of Fundament' during its development and early production stages before being changed to 'Certain Women'.
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