We are all tiny dots of existence in this monstrous universe. Pinpricks of life just a breath away from ecstasy or demise. Hollywood’s noticed.

Travelogues are in vogue, with Hollywood stars escaping employment, relationships, and more to ‘discover themselves’/achieve award glory. Wild‘s greatest strength derives from its avoidance of this narrative pitfall.

Vallée’s solid direction and Witherspoon’s deft and absorbing turn transform a corny passion project into a warm and enlightening flick.

Outside of the lead, the supporting cast (Dern, Sadoski and Hoffmann) deserve more and despite all the positives, there’s a staunch feeling that we’ve seen this all before.

Redemption in the modern age. There’s confident direction from Vallée but little to truly delve into. Watch simply for a soulful and spellbinding Witherspoon.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Reese Witherspoon, Gaby Hoffmann, Laura Dern, Thomas Sadoski

DIRECTOR: Jean-Marc Vallée

WRITERS: Nick Hornby

SYNOPSIS: Based on Cheryl Strayed’s New York Times bestseller, Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail, following her 1,100-mile solo hike undertaken as a way to recover from a recent catastrophe.