Sunday, June 22, 2008

The Bean Trees

Author: Daryn Wiseman
Location: Lake Stevens, WA

"The Bean Trees"

Directed by: Niko Caro
Written by: Larry McMurtry and Diana Osanna
Music by: Gustavo Santaolalla

Principal Cast:

Winona Ryder (Taylor Greer)
Ashley Judd (Lou Ann)
Aaron Eckhart (Estevan)
Rachel Weisz (Alice Greer)
Meryl Streep (Mattie)

Tagline: "The shared burden of womanhood has been revealed"

Synopsis: Clear-eyed and spirited, Taylor Greer grew up poor in rural Kentucky with the goals of avoiding pregnancy and getting away. But when she heads west with high hopes and a barely functional car, she meets the human condition head-on. By the time Taylor arrives in Tucson, Arizona, she has acquired a completely unexpected child, a three-year-old American Indian girl named Turtle, and must somehow come to terms with both motherhood and the necessity for putting down roots. Hers is a story about love and friendship, abandonment and belonging, and the discovery of surprising resources in apparently empty places.

What the press would say:

This film follows the gritty, outspoken Taylor Greer, played by exceptional Winona Ryder, who leaves her native Kentucky to head west. The blue-collar setting, shown vibrantly, often turns violent, with baby beatings, street brawls, and drug busts. Despite the hurt and rage, themes of love and nurturing emerge. A refreshingly upbeat, presentable effort by everyone involved – BRAVO!

Potential Awards:
Best Picture
Best Director: Niko Caro
Best Adapted Screenplay: Larry McMurtry and Diana Osanna
Best Original Score: Gustavo Santaolalla
Best Actress: Winona Ryder
Best Supporting Actress: Ashley Judd
Best Supporting Actress: Rachel Weisz
Best Supporting Actress: Meryl Streep

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