Hey there, SWRNN readers. Today I’ll be reviewing the latest film from directing legend Paul Thomas Anderson, “The Master.”
(Contributed image)
“The Master” centers on a mentally unstable Naval veteran turned drifter named Freddie Quell, who goes under the wing of a strange cult’s leader, named Lancaster Dodd, aka “The Master.”
The film was written and directed by film genius Paul Thomas Anderson, and stars Joaquin Phoenix as Quell, Philip Seymour Hoffman as Master, Amy Adams, Jesse Plemons, Ambyr Childers and Rami Malek.
I personally am a huge fan of Anderson and think he’s is one of, if not the greatest filmmakers working today. His films “Boogie Nights,” “Magnolia,” and “There Will be Blood” all fall somewhere in my top ten favorite movies of all time. That being said, I still went into this film unbiased, and I adored it.
The acting in “The Master” was beyond fantastic. Phoenix gives what I believe to be the performance of a lifetime, playing such a flawed and brutal character to perfection. Saying he’s going to get Oscar buzz is an understatement — his performance ranks up there with Brando’s in “The Godfather.”
Hoffman’s performance was just as good, especially in one key scene that involves “no blinking.”
The direction by Anderson and the cinematographer by Mihai Malaimare Jr. were beyond perfect. Every shot looked breathtakingly beautiful, and the way Anderson directed some of the scenes in this film is one of a kind. The best part about his direction in this film is that it makes the audience feel uncomfortable, but in the way where it’s required to keep watching. This was by far his most cinematic movie, but also one of his best.
I saw this movie in magnificent 70 millimeter film, and it looked amazing. For those that aren’t aware, this is the first film shot entirely in 65mm film, and the last movie to do that was 1996s “Hamlet.” Paul Thomas Anderson is one of the last true filmmakers alive today, and I love him to death for it.
This was one of the hardest films I have ever had to review, and I feel like I didn’t give it enough praise despite how glowing this review may be. This is a flawless movie in my eyes. Overall, I give “The Master” 5 out of 5.
Paul Thomas Anderson has made another masterpiece.
Adam Rolseth is a teen movie reviewer and regular guest contributor to SWRNN.
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