The Woodsman (2004)

Absolutely Brilliant!

It's funny watching the elements come together in this complicated scam. On one hand, the set-up isn't quite as complex as it seems, but there's an easy sense of fun in every exchange.

I enjoyed watching this film and would recommend other to give it a try , (as I am) but this movie, although enjoyable to watch due to the better than average acting fails to add anything new to its storyline that is all too familiar to these types of movies.

Worth seeing just to witness how winsome it is.

Granted, Mysterious Skin looks at the issue of pedophilia and child abuse from the perspective of the victims, while this film looks at the struggle of the offender, however...This film really lacked the depth that MS goes into in exploring the devastating ramifications of child abuse, and generally in the realness of its characterizations. It felt very Hollywood in imposing a redemption plot - kind of rendering the taboo topic kind of generic and usual.While the film does not in any way apologize for the past deeds of its protagonist, In applying a kind of 'hero's journey' structure, it - by implication - turns the protagonist into a quasi-hero. This is particularly evident in the climactic scene where Walter beats up the other offender, Candy. I just didn't believe this would be something Walter's character would do, and it felt like a contrived attempt to redeem Walter's character and make him more palatable to mainstream audiences.I enjoyed the performances in this film and it was really nice and unexpected watching Kevin Bacon embarking on this kind of challenging role.However, for me it's a 7 at best.

I'm not going to say that pedophilia is a form of love the way some reviewers have. Pedophilia is an illness; it's sick, and can mentally, physically and emotionally destroy a child victim for life. It's the same as rape, and that's not love. That's destruction. I myself know a kid who was sexually abused by a parent and it's a horrible crime.But should there be a second chance offered if a pedophile does their time and wants to change? In the Woodsman, Walter (Kevin Bacon) gets released from prison after spending 12 years for molesting little girls. He has only one chance to redeem himself and forget his disgusting past. He's definitely not a stereotypical pedophile so his new co-workers at his new job at the local lumber factory don't know his history, but his family and friends are horrified by him and have left him behind. Even his brother in law, despite trying to help Walter, keeps a close eye on him. But Walter meets a little girl named Robin (she's being sexually abused by her father) and a child molester named "Candy", and suddenly he has the chance to improve the lives of the victim children.The Woodsman isn't perfect, there are a few flaws. For one thing, the coincidence that Walter's new neighborhood just happens to have a pedophile at the park and an abused girl. It's not the most original movie, it's like they combined Taxi Driver (1976) with Happiness (1998). The police officer is mean, but so mean to Walter that it gets unrealistic at times.Still, it does have its moments. The scene with Walter and Robin at the park together, when Walter realizes for the first time the damage caused by sexual child abuse, is one of the saddest yet hopeful moments in a movie I've ever seen. The acting was great on all accounts, the soundtrack wasn't bad and the movie didn't have to rely on pervy sex jokes or crude humor to get an audience.In reality, it's up to the law to decide the punishment for sexual abusers, and every case is different. But whether you agree with it or not, this is only a fictional film, a scenario to show us that maybe people do have the potential to change. I think The Woodsman was one of the best films I've seen in a while, I highly recommend it.

In The Woodsman, Kevin Bacon gives the most powerful performance of his career in a challenging film about paedophilia, or rather its aftermath. Difficult subject matter for anyone to watch, The Woodsman seems to offer an explanation of this particular case, which feels implausibly straight-forward. Still, the exploration of the subject is highly thought provoking. Bacon stars with his off-screen wife Kyra Sedgewick, whose own performance is adept and nuanced, although sometimes her character feels too tailored to fit Walter, suggesting one has to be damaged to feel anything for someone who is damaged. Mos Def also gives a good supporting performance as the police officer tracking Walter's movements. There is a scene near the end which is the most tense that I can remember watching in recent years, all the more so because the story had generated some sympathy for Bacon's character by that point. Ultimately, The Woodsman's conclusion is too convenient and comfortable, and yet it is the only aspect that lets the film down. Worth viewing if only as reminder that Kevin Bacon is an excellent actor, and that there are many films out there that you have never seen, but probably should and will be well rewarded for seeking out - The Woodsman should be at the top of that list.

Kevin Bacon is Amongst THE Most Under-Rated Actors working today. For some odd reason, Bacon has NEVER been nominated for an Academy-Award, despite giving amazing performances throughout his career.In 'The Woodsman', Bacon does what Brando did in 'On The Waterfront'. Bacon gives a new form to "Acting" all together. Bacon Delivers An Astounding Performance, that deserved to WIN him an Academy-Award for Best-Actor. This is among those defining Cinematic Moments, that come & change the entire ball-game. 'The Woodman' Synopsis: A child molester returns to his hometown after 12 years in prison and attempts to start a new life.'The Woodsman' is a fantastic film. Of course, Bacon's towering performance is its greatest merit, but even as a disturbing human-drama, 'The Woodsman' offers a solid punch. Steven Fechter & Nicole Kassell's Screenplay is subtly devastating. It's remarkable work! Nicole Kassell's Direction is Superb. On the whole, 'The Woodsman' is among the best films I've ever seen, with Bacon just changing the entire ball-game all together. Two Big Thumbs Up!