One of the latest Miramax productions to leave the studio shelf after a lengthy hiatus is "An Unfinished Life" by director Lasse Hallstrom whose previous dramas have all focused on character-driven relationships within a small town setting.
Robert Redford portrays Einar Gilkyson, a disgruntled recovering alcoholic and Wyoming rancher. Besides his farming duties, he must also tend to the daily care of his former ranch hand Mitch Bradley (Morgan Freeman), whose injuries from a recent bear mauling have forced him to retire.
Einar is still grieving the death of his son in an automobile accident which occurred over a decade ago. But soon, he experiences setbacks in his recovery when his estranged daughter-in-law, Jean (Jennifer Lopez), unexpectedly arrives with her 11-year old daughter, Griff (Becca Gardner).
Jean has just fled an abusive relationship, and with no other available refuge, is hoping to find shelter in the only place she's familiar with. At first, Einar makes it clear that she isn't welcome in his home. For years, he has harbored bitterness towards her and has held her responsible for his son's death.
Eventually, he reluctantly agrees to allow Jean and Griff to settle into an unused storage room, and even begins warming up towards his newly-found granddaughter.
Jean begins to stabilize her life by getting a job at a diner while finding comfort and security within the affections of the town sheriff (Josh Lucas), and forming a friendship with a fellow waitress (Camryn Manheim), who is also dealing with a tragedy of her own. She also attempts to make progress in her reconciliation with Einar.
Meanwhile, outside enemies arrive on the homestead in the form of Jean's ex-boyfriend (Damian Lewis), returning to reclaim what is rightfully his, as well as the bear responsible for Mitch's injuries.
The film deeply emphasizes the subjects of forgiveness, the healing of both physical and emotional wounds, as well as being set free from life's personal trappings.
Robert Redford and Morgan Freeman, two long-established veteran performers, present a combination of easy chemistry and camaraderie throughout, reminding us of the companionship and wise guidance Freeman offered to Clint Eastwood's diamond-in-the-rough character in "Million Dollar Baby".
Jennifer Lopez relies on the battered woman role she portrayed in another domestic abuse film, "Enough", bringing both strength and vulnerability to Jean's attributes. Here, we can learn something from this film's message, and forgive Lopez for her participation in the disastrous "Gigli". It's obvious that she can be a very capable actress if given the right material.
As for newcomer Becca Gardner, she delivers a realistic and precocious insight throughout her role, serving as a solid anchor for all of the lost adults around her.
The bear also deserves an honorable mention for his largely noticeable presence which serves as an important symbolic element.
While some will find the convenient and precipitated resolutions of a decade-long feud a bit unrealistic, others will be charmed by the film's postcard scenery and satisfied with its happy ending.
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