Actor Paul Dano, who starred in movies such as 12 Years a Slave (2013) and Swiss Army Man (2016), has stepped behind the camera in his directorial debut, Wildlife. Not only does he direct the hard-hitting drama, he also co-wrote the screenplay with Zoe Kazan, an accomplished actress in her own right. Based on the 1990 novel of the same name by author Richard Ford, Jerry (Jake Gyllenhaal) has fallen on hard times as the sole source of income for a family living in the small town of Great Falls, Montana. His wife, Jeanette (Carey Mulligan) and son Joe (Ed Oxenbould), attempt to be patient and supportive of the patriarch of the Brinson household.
As Jerry struggles to find a job that is worthy of his talents, Jeanette and Joe attempt to chip in to do their parts by getting jobs. The blow to Jerry’s pride leads him to take a position of fighting the nearby wildfire that is starting to rage out of control. Of course his family begs him stay back but Jerry’s mind has been made up. In his absence, Jeanette and Joe are put in a position of self preservation. This dynamic puts great strain on the status quo as well as the relationship between the three. When Jerry returns from his duties from afar, it turns out that more than just parts of the forest may have been destroyed.
First-time director Paul Dano looks like a veteran as he orchestrates such great chemistry between acting veterans Jake Gyllenhaal and Carey Mulligan. Not to be overlooked is Ed Oxenbould’s performance as the person in the middle of this potential family disaster. He must try to be wise beyond his years in the attempt to keep everything together. It comes as little surprise that the actors give such inspiring performances as Wildlife isn’t there first rodeo. What’s surprising is Dano’s ability to not overcompensate in his new role. Many people try to validate their positions by making bold moves and statements just for the sake of being heard. Dano lets the story come to him and uses the gifts that he’s given.
Gyllenhaal, Mulligan, Oxenbould and Bill Camp are the gifts. Paul Dano is the wrapping paper. Wrapping all of this goodness together makes for a stellar film experience. There will be little fanfare for Wildlife in its limited theatrical run or the eventual home release., so let me be a small, but very positive voice for this well-done movie. Put this on your list of ones to not let get away. You can see it in a few theaters now. Check your local listings for showtimes.
