The Master
Freddie Quell drifts through life in this critically acclaimed masterpiece by Paul Thomas Anderson. A World War Two veteran, Freddie Quell (Phoenix) makes his way into a boat where he meets Lancaster Dodd ( Hoffman). In a battle of wits, these two men bond in search for belonging. This Film was given three oscar nominations, for the acting of the three leads, Hoffman, Phoenix, and Adams.
This film has one of the greatest openings in history. The cinematography, matched with the beautiful score by Greenwood perfectly showcases what kind of film this will be. Paul Thomas Anderson perfectly shows us the mind of this man with ptsd from the war. From him not being able to stay calm, to his constant joining and departure of things, he just wonders around.
After Freddie Quell finds his way onto a cruise ship looking for a place to belong, and meets Lancaster Dodd, the leader of " The Cause." The Cause is a scientology like philosophical movement, focusing on past lives, and freeing yourself from past trauma.
Throughout the film, we see Lancaster and Freddie to head to head. They hate each other just as much as they love each other, and despise the other just as much as they need them. Though disapproved by a good amount of The Cause, they keep coming back together.
Ultimately, this film is about connection, and trying to belong. Lancaster Dodd is trying to build his following, while Freddir Quell tries to find a place to belong and fit in.
Joaquin Phoenix's performance in The Master is the greatest feat of not only his career, but also one of the greatest in history. His sudden, animalistic jerks, and twists shows the physicality of the character like no actor has ever done it.
Philip Seymour Hoffman gives the best performance he has ever done. You can feel what he feels and think what he thinks. His performance is another level. He has the perfect Charisma and charm to lead a religion/ cult.
Amy Adams also in her best performance, seamlessly portrays the type of person who is drawn into this Religion/ Cult type thing by a man like Lancaster Dodd. Her complete belief, along with her own control over Lancaster truly shows us the workings of The Cause