“Cold Mountain” is about the tragic love story between Inman (Jude Law) and Ada Monroe (Nicole Kidman). Inman is a poor worker in the remote region “Cold Mountain” in North Carolina. Ada is the well-educated daughter of the new reverend (Donald Sutherland). Very soon they fall in love. But before they can build up a relationship, the civil war starts and Inman has to leave for the front. During the battles Inman loses his enthusiasm for the war. He has to witness how all of his friend lose their lives time after time. When he is heavily injured himself, he decides to desert and return to Ada, to Cold Mountain. On his way back, he has to fight against plunderers, slave traders and the own troops which are on the look-out for deserters.

At the same time in Cold Mountain: Shortly after Inman has left, Ada’s father dies. Because all the craftsmen and field workers are at war, she has to manage the farm’s work on her own. Being completely overtaxed with this task she gets help by the rustic Ruby Thewes (Renée Zellweger). In the beginning they face each other sceptically. But after a While they develop a deep friendship which helps them to deal with the difficult situation.

“Cold Mountain” is a typical movie by Minghella. He jumps between the story lines. He uses flashbacks to tell what was going on before and he takes the time he needs, which sometimes is simply too long). He sticks too much to the novel the movie is based upon, building in too many subplots. The consequence is that the viewer sooner or later loses interest in Inman’s journey. Less would have been more.

Since three actors were nominated for the Oscar, they have to be examined and compared. While they work together in many scenes the comparison of Nicole Kidman and Renée Zellweger is quite easy. In nearly every scene Zellweger steals the show from Kidman. She simply is believable in her role as a typical farmer. On the contrary Kidman looks too spruce.

The performance of Jude Law is much more difficult to evaluate. Over long stretches he just has to stare blankly and emotionless into the camera. In other scenes he has to show his whole potential, for example at the deathbed of his comrade. Next to these famous actors, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Natalie Portman were brilliant in their smaller roles.

A great plus of “Cold Mountain” is the technical perfection. The budget of $83 million is everywhere to be seen in this movie. The flawless scenery, costumes and special effects as well as the beautiful landscapes are more than remarkable.

Everybody who likes the movies Minghella has produced so far will like this movie, too. People who fancy unhurried dramas also can risk a glance. But nobody should expect an overwhelming experience.

by Martin Prisson

last change: 10.03.2004 19:33