The New World

Those with the patience to make it to the story's conclusion may be surprised | Andrew Coffin

Based on the film's trailers, one might expect The New World (rated PG-13 for some intense battle sequences; also some scantily clad Native Americans and hints of sensuality) to be a politically correct, revisionist drama that pits idyllic "naturals" against imperialistic white settlers; but those willing to submit themselves to Mr. Malick's lyrical style may find the film is more than it first appears to be.

The film is ostensibly about the Jamestown colony, and Colin Farrell plays John Smith, an unlikely bit of casting until one understands where Mr. Malick intends to take his story. Newcomer Q'Orianka Kilcher plays Pocahontas, the Native American princess whom Smith meets, befriends, and—according to legend accepted whole cloth by this film—comes to love.