When Terrence Malick returns to the film set after his customary lengthy breaks, he approaches filmmaking not as a mere director but as an artist who paints with light. While this description might seem lofty, a glance at his works reveals breathtaking visuals of nature intertwined with the fluid movements of his cast. Although his unique style is often hailed as a treasure in the cinematic landscape, Malick’s transcendental narratives about life’s purpose and humanity’s intricate relationship with the world can polarize audiences and critics alike. This divide became particularly pronounced with his second film, Days of Heaven. This poignant drama, following two dreamy farmers in the early 20th century, showcases stunning craftsmanship that often distracts viewers from the fact that it features a career-defining performance by Richard Gere.

Experience the Golden Hour Through Terrence Malick’s Lens in ‘Days of Heaven’

Terrence Malick’s inaugural film, <em>Badlands</em>, featuring Martin Sheen and Sissy Spacek as star-crossed lovers, presents a more straightforward narrative style. However, in Days of Heaven, the Texas-born filmmaker fully embraces his iconic filmmaking approach, showcasing a plethora of mesmerizing Golden Hour visuals that capture the sky’s ethereal beauty. The film explores the intertwining lives of farm laborer Bill (Gere), who manipulates his lover Abby (Brooke Adams) into courting their wealthy, ill boss, The Farmer (Sam Shepard), to secure his wealth. This film marked a significant pause in Malick’s career, as he vanished from the cinematic scene for two decades, only to re-emerge with the profound World War II narrative, The Thin Red Line. The cunning actions of Bill lead to unforeseen consequences that reflect biblical themes, making Days of Heaven a fable about the American Dream and the perils of escaping a life of hardship.

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While the profound thematic elements of Days of Heaven are essential, the film’s strength lies in its breathtaking, dream-like portrayal of rural America. To the potential frustration of his cast and crew, Malick filmed the majority of the movie during the fleeting Golden Hour period, resulting in an endless array of captivating images but creating significant challenges during production. Despite its brief runtime and straightforward plot, Days of Heaven exudes the fluidity of a nature documentary. Cinematographer Nestor Almendros described the film as “not a rigidly prepared film,” highlighting its improvisational style. This approach eventually led Almendros to leave the project, making way for Haskell Wexler to step in. The effort to shoot during this limited timeframe was daunting, yet Malick’s dedicated crew, including esteemed production designer Jack Fisk, elevated the film to an extraordinary art form. Malick’s otherworldly visuals, especially the stunning locust swarm scene, encapsulate the juxtaposition of the expansive fields and the deep-seated isolation between the humble laborers and the affluent landowners.

Richard Gere Embodies a Dreamer Seeking Redemption in ‘Days of Heaven’

Just before his ascent to stardom in films like American Gigolo and An Officer and a Gentleman, Richard Gere delivered a deeply moving performance in Days of Heaven, portraying a farmer who often resembles a con artist. After a tragic accident in Chicago leads to the death of his steel factory boss, Bill persuades Abby to pretend to be his sister, a ruse aimed at quelling rumors about their relationship. In this film, which conveys profound beauty through its visual storytelling, Gere, with his intense internal struggle, captures the essence of fleeting romanticism as he observes Abby’s growing affection for The Farmer’s genuine nature, all while a specter of death looms in the distance. Traditionally seen as a handsome leading man, Gere’s dramatic range can sometimes feel limited, but under Malick’s guidance, he becomes a canvas reflecting the mysteries of existence.

The stunning cinematography, rich production design, and lush visuals received unanimous acclaim upon the film’s release in 1978. However, Malick’s screenplay sparked controversy. Critics argued that in this film, “the narrative takes a backseat to the visuals,” as noted by Monica Eng in the Chicago Tribune. Detractors of Malick often label his films as self-indulgent, attributing this to his inclination toward subtle subtext. Many films may prioritize visual style, yet Days of Heaven‘s thematic nuances harmonize perfectly with its stunning cinematography. If the burning passion of the love triangle feels distant against such beautiful imagery, it reflects the disconnection experienced by Bill and Abby as transient drifters. Days of Heaven endures as a timeless cinematic masterpiece, transcending mere visual spectacle. With Terrence Malick at the helm, the beauty of his films often defies empirical analysis, yet each viewing reminds audiences they are witnessing a work of art.

Days of Heaven is available for streaming on Paramount+ in the United States.

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A hot-tempered farm laborer convinces the woman he loves to marry their rich but dying boss so that they can have a claim to his fortune.

Release Date

September 13, 1978

Director

Terrence Malick

Runtime

94 minutes

Writers

Terrence Malick