The Ballad of Jack and Rose

'Ballad of Jack and Rose' a murky, haunting song
by Steve Murray

In this elusive tale of a modern Eden in freefall, Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Jack, single dad of 16-year-old Rose (Camilla Belle) living on an island and following the eco-minded ways of his early life in a commune. Dying from heart disease, he realizes belatedly that an isolated life together has edged father and daughter toward feelings more than familial. Writer-director Rebecca Miller's fable is beautifully acted, with strong supporting work from Catherine Keener. But it's narratively shapeless; its message never really comes clear. Read the full review

TO SUM UP
A father and daughter isolated on an island off the East Coast and living on a once thriving commune grapple with the limits of family and sexuality.

FILM FACTS ...

IFC Films

The Ballad of Jack and Rose

Director: Rebecca Miller
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Camilla Belle, Beau Bridges, Catherine Keener, Paul Dano, Ryan McDonald
Run time: 111 minutes
Release date: March 25, 2005
Rating: R for language, sexual content and some drug material.
See showtimes

On the web
Official movie site
View the trailer
Trailers require Quicktime

READ THE REVIEW

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: C+
"The main reason to see "Ballad" is Daniel Day-Lewis. ... Despite the movie's elusiveness, it reminds us how talented he is..."