The World to Come (2020), directed by Mona Fastvold, is a tender and melancholic period drama that explores forbidden love and profound loneliness in the American frontier of the 19th century. Based on Jim Shepard’s short story, the film follows Abigail (Katherine Waterston), a quiet farmer’s wife grieving the loss of her young daughter, and her growing bond with her new neighbor, the vibrant and spirited Tallie (Vanessa Kirby).

Set against a backdrop of harsh winters and isolated landscapes, the film unfolds through Abigail’s diary-like narration, offering an intimate look at her inner world—full of suppressed longing, grief, and a desperate search for connection. Katherine Waterston delivers a beautifully restrained performance, conveying volumes through subtle gestures and quiet glances. Vanessa Kirby’s Tallie, by contrast, brings a sense of vitality and defiance that challenges the suffocating norms around them. Their chemistry is palpable, delicate yet intense, capturing the aching beauty of a love that feels both inevitable and doomed.

Visually, The World to Come is stunning. The cinematography captures the brutal beauty of the frontier, with muted colors and soft, natural lighting that mirror the characters’ emotional landscapes. Every frame feels painterly, with a sense of stillness that reflects both the external environment and the internal isolation the characters endure. Daniel Blumberg’s haunting score enhances the film’s meditative, sorrowful tone, wrapping the story in a quiet, lingering sadness.

Fastvold’s direction is patient and immersive, allowing the story to breathe and emotions to simmer just beneath the surface. The film doesn’t sensationalize its central relationship; instead, it treats it with a profound sense of respect and realism, emphasizing how extraordinary love can feel in a world that seems designed to suppress it.

The World to Come is not a fast-paced drama—it’s slow, contemplative, and deeply emotional. It demands attention and empathy, rewarding viewers with a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the human need for companionship. If you appreciate intimate, character-driven stories with lyrical beauty and emotional depth, The World to Come is a quietly devastating and unforgettable experience.

You can stream The World to Come on various platforms.