A Thousand Acres

“A Thousand Acres” is a drama film released in 1997, directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse. The movie is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name by Jane Smiley.

The story is set in the American Midwest and revolves around the lives of three sisters – Ginny (Jessica Lange), Rose (Michelle Pfeiffer), and Caroline (Jennifer Jason Leigh) – who live and work on their family’s thousand-acre farm.

The sisters’ lives are deeply intertwined with the family patriarch, Larry Cook (Jason Robards), a hardworking and dominant figure who owns the farm. When Larry decides to retire and hand over the farm to his daughters, it sets in motion a chain of events that unravels long-buried secrets and family tensions.

As the sisters take on more responsibilities and face the challenges of running the farm, they confront issues of inheritance, sibling rivalry, and the emotional scars of their past.

The film delves into themes of family dynamics, female empowerment, and the impact of abuse and trauma on the lives of the characters. It portrays the complexity of relationships between the sisters and their father, exploring the ways in which their roles and identities are shaped by their past experiences.

The performances of the ensemble cast are widely praised, particularly those of Jessica Lange and Michelle Pfeiffer, who bring depth and nuance to their roles as the conflicted sisters.

“Thousand Acres” received mixed reviews from critics upon its release, with some praising its performances and emotional depth, while others found fault with its pacing and adaptation of the source material.

Nevertheless, the film remains a touchstone for viewers who appreciate intimate family dramas and character-driven storytelling. It offers a compelling exploration of complex family relationships, personal growth, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.