’Cold Mountain’ is the story of star-crossed lovers Ada(Nicole Kidman) and Inman(Jude Law) set against the backdrop of the American Civil war. The story is a painful reminder that love does not conquer all and the damage and loss caused by war can never be made up.
The movie drags a lot sometimes and becomes boring but it was a big hit. The reason why, I shall try to explain.
Cold Mountain is not just a war story but also a story of people whose lives are affected and changed forever by war. Inman and Ada’s fledgeling romance is cut short by the war. Inman goes away with a promise to return and he keeps his promise true to the old days when people respected their words and love was a passion that kept people alive. Ada and Inman hardly know each other but the love and sincerity they feel for each other is extraordinary as Inman says.every moment spent with Ada is a bag of diamonds.
The film however concentrates more on Inman’s adventures in the fighting field and in his journey back home. Ada also meanwhile becomes a farm woman from a dainty lady under the influence of the fiesty Ruby, played to perfection by Ren?e Zellweger. The transformation of Ada’s character under the influence of the war is remarkable as compared to that of Inman.
Jude Law plays Inman with an intensity which comes so natural to him. Natalie Portman is surprisingly cast in a small role and shines through. The movie does not have an outstanding script or story but have powerpacked performances. Nicole Kidman’s narration of the love letters is also soothing to the ears.
’Cold Mountain’ reminds you of the movie’Atonement’ and other war movies. Though extremely romantic, it seldom meanders into melodrama, but sticks to stark reality.
Well just.one bollywood touch. Ada gets Grace Inman, her daughter with just one night with Inman.