EXHIBITS
The Tree of Life: Nature and Grace
Nature and Grace
In the beginning of the film, Malick asserts his religious views when Mrs. O'Brien says, "The nuns taught us there are two ways through life -- the way of nature and the way of grace" (02:04). She goes on to explain that grace does not please itself and accepts all injury that comes to it. Nature, on the other hand, is self-pleasing and arrogant. People choose which path they will follow. As the film progresses, it's clear that Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien embody these concepts, which becomes a strong theme throughout The Tree of Life.
Mrs. O'Brien's embodiment of grace is heavily emphasized throughout the film. In one scene, she is shown interacting with a butterfly, allowing it to land on her finger (41:30 - 41:52). She exhibits a sense of wonder as she tenderly handles the creature. In another scene, Mrs. O'Brien spins with Jack in her arms, points to the sky, and says, "That's where God lives" (47:27 - 47:37). Both of these scenes display her gentle demeanor and her faith in God's role as a creator. By following the way of grace, Mrs. O'Brien appreciates nature and does not attempt to overcome it. She accepts her humble role as a human being in God's world.
Mr. O’Brien, on the other hand, exhibits the way of nature. In one scene, he coaches his sons on how to fight and says, "The minute you see him blink, crack him, okay?" (1:05:20 - 1:05:28). By telling his sons to attack when someone's guard is down, Mr. O'Brien teaches them to take advantage of others. Mr. O'Brien's determination to survive, even at the expense of others, strongly emmulates the ideals of nature.
The Tree of Life. Directed by Terrence Malick, performances by Brad Pitt, Jessica Chastain, Sean Penn, and Hunter McCracken, Fox Searchlight, 2011.