North Country (DVD)

Ahhhhh, North Country. Not exactly the type of film most Internet movie geeks are clamoring for, but it is a film that deserves mention. This is yet another Oscar-nominated turn for Charlize Theron as well as a supporting nod for Frances McDormand. When I saw this picture back in October I had no doubt in my mind Theron's name would be announced during the nominations... Hell, at that time I thought this film had a best picture nod for sure. The fact that it was denied a best picture nom does not mean it isn't one of the better films of 2005, because it is.

North Country is a touching drama that delves into the first ever class action sexual harassment lawsuit ever brought to court as Josie Aimes (Charlize Theron) along with a group of women working in the mines of Minnesota are mistreated and ill-received on the job. Anything from harsh words to feces smeared on their locker room walls, you name it it happens and Josie is the only one with the determination to tackle the issue head on. Even after she is met with massive resistance, not only from those responsible, but her female co-workers as well.

The picture was directed by Niki Caro (Whale Rider) and also features the talent of Sissy Spacek, Woody Harrelson and amazing turns by Richard Jenkins, Michelle Monaghan and Sean Bean.

As for this DVD there is not a lot to be had, which is slightly unfortunate. There is a mini-documentary featuring words from the real women that inspired the story, some deleted scenes and a look at the theatrical trailer. Besides that there isn't anything. What would have been a real special feature would have been two commentaries. The first commentary would have been with the real women that went through this telling story, the other would have been with at least Niki Caro and Charlize Theron, but what isn't there, isn't there.

As far as buying this DVD, that is something I can't particularly recommend. While the movie is very good, it is also a bit of a downer despite the fact that it ends on a high note. This women are tormented from every angle and to buy it for repeated viewing is a decision you will have to make on your own. Considering there aren't any lengthy special features to revisit I would say this is a rental for one of those nights you are in the mood for a serious turn, when you are prepared to be emotionally captured by a film.

The entertainment in this one is in the performances and for the inspiring message the story brings, but to think you will watch it more than once is rather unlikely, at least not so much that a rental a year won't suffice.