The Master

You know a movie is good when afterwards you’re contemplating suicide etcetera. The Master, to me is one of the greatest anti war movies ever. It depicts a mentally unstable man that has been let into the navy and then subsequently grows more detached from societal norms and rules. When he is later released back into society he doesn’t get the help he so clearly needs. Instead he poisons himself and others around him while exemplifying violent tendencies. Alcohol, Freddy’s coping mechanism since his war days leads him right into the arms of Lancaster Dodd, the charismatic cult leader. Freddy’s life becomes revolved around Lancaster, his mental state deteriorating and when he then leaves the cult he has become empty and void of purpose. Thus leading him crawling back into the arms of The Master. Two masterclass performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman who play right into each other, challenging and complementing each of their respective strengths. I was not expecting that much from Joaquin considering Hoffman’s so very dominant screen presence. But I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was kind of the dynamic that was meant for them in the script. Phoenix being the unconditional, erratic and unpredictable follower to Hoffman’s at times stoic and cheerful but always dominant leader. The supporting cast are all just incredible! Rami Malek with what little screen time he has perfectly embodies a true follower. Amy Adams’ almost equally as dominant role as Hoffman is charming and terrifying at the same time, really just enchanting. Wish we had seen some more from Laura Dern though :/ I’d say that recognizing There Will Be Blood and all its religious themes I would still say that this is Paul Thomas Anderson’s most spiritual film with how it dives into man’s soul, purpose and consciousness. I’ve been thinking now, it may be a libertarian way of thinking but are cults that wrong? They can give people purpose, happiness and community and as long as they aren’t hurting others or themselves how are cults different from your traditional religions? Jonny Greenwood deserves more respect when speaking about movie composers! Frankly I don’t think there’s a conversation about the Oscar for best score because it so clearly should go to Jonny for his work on One Battle After Another.