Paul Schrader's 'Master Gardener' premieres at Venice 79
Paul Schrader's new film 'Master Gardener' premiered out of competition at the 79th Venice International Film Festival. The film follows Narvel Roth, a horticulturist with a hidden past, exploring themes of redemption, love, and the feminine. Schrader continues his late-career shift begun with 'First Reformed', blending his signature motifs—good vs. evil, the lone man seeking atonement, and romantic love—with a more aestheticized, softer conflict. The film features a rebellious mixed-race Lolita and a stern widow, representing two versions of femininity. Schrader's direction shows maturity, yet raises questions about whether these themes truly reflect an aging filmmaker who once questioned the transcendent in cinema. The screening received applause, and the script is noted for its richness in metaphor and erotic, subversive potential.
Key facts
- Paul Schrader's 'Master Gardener' premiered out of competition at Venice 79.
- The film centers on horticulturist Narvel Roth with a hidden past.
- Schrader continues his late-career shift begun with 'First Reformed'.
- The film explores redemption, love, and the feminine.
- Features a rebellious mixed-race Lolita and a stern widow.
- The screening received applause.
- Script noted for richness in metaphor and erotic potential.
- Schrader's motifs include good vs. evil, atonement, and romantic love.
Entities
Artists
- Paul Schrader
- Carlotta Petracci
Institutions
- Venice International Film Festival
- Artribune
Locations
- Venice
- Italy