2001 / Todd Field > In his debut, Field crafts a quiet work that lingers at the edge of one’s bones. While not as polished or impeccable as The Sweet Hereafter, both films challenge the viewer to face a state of gloom with patience, courage and hope. Tenseness is everpresent, but rarely does it overdo its charm. And while there are small missteps here and there (notably part of the climax), incredible performances from Tom Wilkinson and Sissy Spacek ultimately glues the work to one’s mind.