Nomadland

THE GIST: Recently widowed, Fern lives in her van and works wherever she can find temporary jobs, all over the country. Along the way, she meets and befriends countless others, who lead a nomadic lifestyle like her, even though not all for the same reasons.

Nomadland is a scathing indictment of modern American society, a country where individualism is king and capitalism dictates all the rules; government is viewed warily, even when people would benefit the most from its interventions; and in the end you're really just left to fend for yourself.

Directed, written, and edited by Chloé Zhao, who created a real cinematic masterpiece, the story is told in almost hushed tones, with an unforgettable performance by Frances McDormand. You just want to hug her and be her friend forever!

Not surprisingly, the film has received countless accolades all over the world, and is up for six Oscars at this upcoming Sunday's Academy Awards' ceremony: Best Picture, Director, Screenplay, Lead Actress (McDormand), Editing, and Cinematography, which lends an almost elegiac feel to the movie.

There is also a wonderful score, but I guess it's not extensive or original enough to be counted for the Oscars. Too bad. It's by Ludovico Einaudi.

THE BOTTOM LINE: This should be viewed by every American, and if you love movies, it's a must-see.

Grade: 10