The New World is a 2005 historical romance drama film written and directed by Terrence Malick.
The film depicts the founding of the Jamestown settlement in Virginia and explores the interactions between English settlers and the indigenous Powhatan tribe, focusing on the legendary figures of Captain John Smith, Pocahontas, and John Rolfe.
Starring Colin Farrell as Captain John Smith, Q'orianka Kilcher as Pocahontas, and Christian Bale as John Rolfe, the film presents a poetic and visually stunning interpretation of the early 17th-century encounter between Native Americans and European settlers. The cinematography, handled by Emmanuel Lubezki, captures the natural beauty of the American landscape, enhancing the film's meditative quality.
The New World had a production budget of approximately $30 million and grossed around $49.3 million at the box office. Despite initial mixed reviews, it has since been reevaluated by critics, with many praising its cinematography, score by James Horner, and Kilcher's performance. The film is noted for its philosophical themes and exploration of love, nature, and the clash of cultures.
The film's narrative structure is unconventional, relying heavily on visual storytelling and ambient sound rather than traditional dialogue, which is characteristic of Malick's style. It has been recognized for its artistic merit and remains a significant work in Malick's filmography, reflecting his unique approach to filmmaking and storytelling.