MUBI

Gino, I have to disagree. Upon Gerry’s release I seem to recall it being well-regarded/heralded as Van Sant’s abandonment of the more mainstream work he had done prior, and thus a completely new direction for him. I specifically remember some reaction/rumours coming out of a major festival (Cannes?) that Van Sant had made a drastic change in the filmmaking perspective, choosing to focus on the existential – influenced by Bela Tarr among others. The subsequent films from his extended detour went on to continue the trend (for all of our benefit, I’d say).

While all of those films have been enjoyable and admirable, I too hold Gerry highest among them. Seeing it theatrically was a great experience, staring in awe at the scenery and pace and focus and gorgeous minimalism (not to mention the hypnotic score).

The scene where the camera focuses in close on Affleck and Damon’s heads as they walk, gradually becoming completely synchronized, remains an alltime favourite of mine.