Title: "Master Gardener": A Brutally Honest Portrayal of Men in Search of Redemption Paul Schrader's latest film, "Master Gardener", is a tour-de-force exploration of the male psyche in a harsh and unforgiving world. The film completes Schrader's trilogy about men searching for grace and redemption, and it does so with unflinching honesty. In "Master Gardener," we follow the journey of a solitary man in search of meaning in life, and how he navigates his way through a brutal world. The film's protagonist, played magnificently by a talented cast, is a man who has lost everything; his family, his profession, and his sense of self. But through his passion for gardening, he discovers a renewed sense of purpose and reflects on his past mistakes, seeking redemption. The film's title itself is an allegory for the character's own journey, for a master gardener is someone who nurtures and cultivates new life from the earth. Schrader's portrayal of the character is brutally honest, depicting his flaws and weaknesses as well as his strengths. The character's search for redemption is fraught with pitfalls and obstacles, and the film does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of his journey. But amidst the darkness, there are moments of beauty and hope, as the character discovers the healing power of nature and the human connection. "Master Gardener" is not just a film about redemption and self-discovery, but also about the complexity and depth of relationships between men and women. Schrader's female characters are vivid and complex, not mere objects of desire or damsels in distress. They are strong, independent, and capable of guiding the male characters towards their own redemption. Overall, "Master Gardener" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the deepest aspects of the human condition with honesty and integrity. It is a must-see for anyone interested in delving into the complexities of the male psyche and our search for redemption in a brutal world. Paul Schrader's latest film, Master Gardener, concludes his trilogy on the themes of grace and brutality through the journeys of male characters, though the women in the film are also lively and engaging. Manohla Dargis offers a review for NYT Movies.
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