News of the World

In 'News of the World,' Tom Hanks journeys through the rugged landscapes of Texas, delivering news and hope. While the film has its strong moments, it often drags and feels disjointed.

A Journey through the Wild West

The film follows Captain Jefferson Kyle Kidd, portrayed by Tom Hanks, as he traverses the post-Civil War American West. His mission is simple yet significant: to bring news to isolated towns. However, his journey takes an unexpected turn when he agrees to transport Johanna, a young girl who has been taken from her family and raised by Native Americans. As the two navigate the harsh frontier, their relationship develops amidst various challenges, including hostile encounters and the pervasive struggle of the time, ultimately leading to personal growth for both characters.

Hanks and Zengel Shine Together

Tom Hanks delivers a dependable performance as Kidd, channeling both gentleness and grit. However, his character feels underdeveloped, leaving viewers wanting more depth. Helena Zengel as Johanna, on the other hand, impressively captures the innocence and resilience of her character, often stealing scenes from her seasoned co-star. The supporting cast, including Ray McKinnon and Elizabeth Marvel, is competent but lacks opportunities to shine, making their contributions feel more like background noise in a sprawling narrative that could have better utilized their talents.

Landscapes and Pacing Issues

Directed by Paul Greengrass, the film features a meticulous approach to world-building, often showcasing the rugged beauty of Texas. However, his direction occasionally feels overzealous, as action sequences interrupt the film's pacing, leading to jarring tonal shifts. The cinematography captures the vast landscapes effectively, yet the editing lacks a certain fluidity that could have enhanced the storytelling. The film's visual style communicates a sense of realism, but the inconsistent pacing detracts from its impact, leaving viewers feeling a bit lost in the wilderness of its narrative.

Mixed Emotional Responses

Watching 'News of the World' can be a mixed bag. While it has moments of genuine connection—particularly between Hanks and Zengel—there are many stretches where the film meanders aimlessly. It grapples with themes of loss and connection, but the slower pacing can lead to moments of boredom, especially in the second act. The emotional beats don't always hit home due to the film's uneven rhythm. Viewers might find themselves checking the runtime as the film lingers on certain scenes, which could feel unnecessarily drawn out.