God’s Own Country

Frank’s Film Review: God’s Own Country
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ /5

Francis Lee’s debut feature, God’s Own Country, is a poignant British romantic drama. The film’s narrative skillfully navigates a soulful love story with profound themes of self-discovery, human connection, and the quest for redemption. Set against the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire landscape, the film offers an emotionally charged experience.

The narrative follows Johnny Saxby (Josh O’Connor), a young sheep farmer wrestling with the weight of familial expectations. With a father debilitated by a stroke and a grandmother growing older, Johnny is left to take charge of the demanding farm work. Struggling with isolation and frustration, he seeks to escape through heavy drinking and casual encounters. Enter Gheorghe (Alec Secăreanu), a Romanian farmhand hired to help during the lambing season. Gheorghe’s arrival introduces a decisive shift in Johnny’s life, bringing a gentleness and intimacy that begins to break through Johnny’s hardened exterior.

Francis Lee’s direction shines with clarity and intention, offering a vivid depiction of farm life and the emotional struggles within the hearts of his characters. The film’s raw, tactile moments heighten its authenticity. Every frame feels deliberate, capturing the bleakness of the environment alongside the subtle beauty that hope can bring. The restrained dialogue allows the characters’ actions and emotions to convey the depth of their struggles and desires.

Josh O’Connor captures the essence of Johnny, who struggles with responsibility and the unfulfilled longing for something greater. Through his portrayal, Johnny’s transformation from emotionally walled-off to vulnerable and hopeful feels honest and human. Alec Secăreanu is equally mesmerizing, bringing warmth and quiet strength to Gheorghe. Together, their on-screen chemistry is a delicate balance of tension, tenderness, and passion, making their relationship vivid and real. The film features moments of nudity, presented with sensitivity and purpose. Far from gratuitous, these scenes enhance the story’s authenticity and depth.

Ultimately, God’s Own Country is a beautiful film—a raw exploration of love, identity, and the courage to change. With breathtaking performances and visionary direction, it’s a cinematic masterpiece that deserves recognition as one of modern cinema’s most authentic love stories.