You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy this unforgettable frontier flick – ‘Meek’s Cutoff.’

When I hear of a modern-day Western, I immediately think of True Grit or There Will Be Blood. But Meek’s Cutoff, directed by Kelly Reichardt, is not like these two films at all – it’s in a league of its own. The Cinema Society & Nancy Gonzalez hosted a screening of this western-with-a-twist on March 28 and it was both brilliant and beautiful!

Michelle Williams and Kelly were at the screening the Landmark Sunshine Cinema in NYC.  Set in 1845, the film follows three families as they make their way along the Oregon Trail to a better life out West. Guided by rough-and-tough mountain man Stephen Meek (Bruce Greenwood), the group struggles to survive in the dry, dusty plains.

But everything changes when they come across a Native American who can’t speak their language but knows the terrain. So the group decides to take him on their journey, hoping he’ll steer them in the right direction – towards water and away from an angry tribe.

Michelle is the smart, eldest daughter, Emily Tetherow, who keeps her family intact when it could fall apart at the seams. Coming off the heels of Blue Valentine, where she bared it all to play the love-torn Cindy Heller alongside Ryan Gosling, Meek’s is a drastic change.  She is all layered-up in a paisley pink petticoat for this film. And she portrays a fearless frontierswoman with tremendous skills: she can knit, sew, and even shoot a gun.

Emily also has a tremendous heart. She sympathizes with the guide more than any other character, making her a role model to family friends Millie Gately (Zoe Kazan) and Thomas Gately (Paul Dano). And we see Emily’s sensitive side shine through when like when she goes out of her way to sew the native’s broken boots.

The movie itself is slow moving but beautiful to watch, a cross between a documentary and a western drama. There are so many stunning scenic shots that you sometimes get lost in the landscape, just like the characters in this story.

There’s also not a lot of dialogue in this film — at the start, a whole 15 minutes goes by before we hear a single peep out of any character. But the director makes up for it by paying close attention to facial expressions and body language.

After the film, moviegoers headed to the Jimmy at the James Hotel to celebrate with some sweet Appleton Estate cocktails. Other celebs in attendance were Sheryl Crow, Courtney Love, Alan Cumming and Sophia Coppola.

Don’t miss Meek’s Cutoff when it hits theaters April 8!

— Katie Moore

What did you think of her dress last night? Was it too simple or oh-so-chic?

Michelle Williams loves taking chances on the red carpet, even if some of her choices aren’t widely received — but her simple lilac Chanel couture frock from the spring 2011 collection was appropriate and seemed like an effortless choice on the petite star at the NYC screening of Meek’s Cutoff on Mar. 28.

The dress seems super simple but little details, like black sequined embellishments on the sleeve and large pockets on the front of the dress give this frock character. While some may say it’s kind of bland and shapeless, it’s consistent with Michelle’s style and it’s appropriate for a NYC premiere in March. Michelle finished off the get-up with a Chanel and a pair of Ferragamo pumps.

What did you think of her look last night? Is it way too boring or beautiful and understated?

Katrina Mitzeliotis

Splashnews.com, Getty Images

From day to night, Michelle knows how to look premiere perfect in two totally different dresses!

While at the Venice Film Festival, Michelle Williams managed to keep her look consistent in two different dresses — yet she managed to keep her style conservative and chic in both get-ups! First, on Sept. 5, she turned up wearing a printed Marc Jacobs frock, which was perfect for her outing during the day.

The very next night, on Sept. 6, she went for full-on glamour for the premiere of her flick, Meek’s Cutoff, in a grey silk chiffon Jason Wu gown from the fall 2010 collection. While this conservative looking gown could’ve looked frumpy on someone else the star worked this get-up perfectly. The embellished dress, complete with 3/4 length sleeves, a train, and bow detailing at the collar stole the spotlight on the red carpet.

I really like the way she kept her outfits consistent, even though they were different. I applaud Michelle’s ability to look so chic during the day and at night. What do you think of the star’s style? Which dress did you like best?

-Katrina Mitzeliotis

Check out more from our BFFs at Glamour.com!

1. DIY Beauty: Exactly How to Do Your Manicure and Pedicure Like a Pro
2. 43 Fall Boots Under $150
3. What Kind of Bride Are You?
4. Lea Michele’s Cover-Shoot Photo Gallery

Getty Images

The actress, looking more stunning than ever, premieres her latest film ‘Meek’s Cutoff’ to critical acclaim at the international festival!

Michelle Williams showed up to the premiere of her latest film, the Western period drama Meek’s Cutoff, looking more glamorous than ever in a long sleeved embelished dress, stunning train, and a gorgeous pixie hairdo. This is one mom everyone wishes they could look like!

Michelle’s latest film is in competition at the film festival, and already her incredible performance is generating Oscar buzz!

What do you think about Michelle’s red carpet look HollywoodLifers?