Thursday, November 29, 2012

Movie Review ... The Master

 

the master posterAfter directing ‘There Will Be Blood’ to Oscar winning success, Paul Thomas Anderson’s next venture was eagerly awaited.  He doesn’t disappoint with ‘The Master’ another strong production.  Those who have followed his career since ‘Boogie Nights’ shouldn’t be surprised it features another assortment of unusual characters.  Many are brought vividly to life with Anderson’s talent in weaving long narratives into compelling movies still intact.

Freddie (Joaquin Phoenix) is a sailor returning home after active duty.  Traumatised by the horrors witnessed during World War 2, he seeks some spiritual guidance.  This he finds when he meets Lancaster (Philip Seymour Hoffman).  A charismatic leader of a cult called ‘The Cause’, Lancaster sees Freddie’s potential as a star recruit.  Becoming deeply involved in their activities, Freddie slowly discovers the effect the power of persuasion has on willing followers.

Those who saw Anderson’s earlier work ‘Magnolia’ may experience déjà vu.  Just as infuriating, complex and yet engaging ‘The Master borrows from it in terms of mood.  The acting is top-notch as is the attention to detail although the story is filled with such emotionally cold people it’s difficult empathising with them.  Phoenix’s character in particular is hard to like as his mumbling pessimist makes you almost feel sorry for the cult who initially embrace him.

Despite these misgivings, the themes ‘The Master’ tackles are interesting.  How lack of self-esteem and desperation makes someone go against their nature is skilfully conveyed.  This is apparent in the scenes between Freddie and Lancaster – two people seemingly polar opposites and yet the same.   The way they test each other’s patience is well expressed even if watching some of their by-play is occasionally hard going.

Although very well acted with some striking cinematography, ‘The Master’ isn’t Anderson’s best work.  It repeats itself a little too much with certain sequences adding little to the overall arc.  Even lower-tier Anderson is better than other productions. His willingness to challenge his audience’s thinking always welcome.

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Movie Review Rating 6 / 10

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

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