The Master (2012)

My Rating: 8 out of 10

The Master is an American 2012 psychological drama film written, directed and co-produced by Paul Thomas Anderson. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix as Freddie Quell, Philip Seymour Hoffman as Lancaster Dodd, Amy Adams as Peggy Dodd, Ambyr Childers as Elizabeth Dodd and Jesse Plemons as Val Dodd. The story follows Freddie, who is a World War II veteran into the post-war world trying to adapt to the changes of life. He meets Lancaster, who is the leader of a religious movement called “The Cause” and he sees something in him and accepts him into his movement. Freddie begins travelling with him and his family, spreading their teachings and battling with his own problems.

This movie is an epitome of sensational acting by both leading actors – Phoenix and Hoffman. Joaquin Phoenix gives his character immense depth and portrays it with utmost passion. One can percept his preparation for the role through his physical stature, body language and amazing dialogue delivery. I have seen a lot of movies of Philip Seymour Hoffman and he never disappoints. Here as well, he finds the driving force of his character and delivers it exceptionally well. These two actors portray antithetical men who complete each other but at the same time are independent in their world. Amy Adams makes a place for herself beside these two actors and becomes the impetus for Seymour’s character. You might know Jesse Plemons from AMC’s Breaking Bad fame as blonde Todd, who becomes Walt’s replacement for Jesse Pinkman in the show.

The direction of the movie is an example of the sterling cinematic technique. If you have seen the previous movies of wunderkind P T Anderson like There Will Be Blood and Punch Drunk Love, then you will notice his unique style. He uses the close up shots of his actors, follows them around in their scenes and uses symbolic images. The water shot in the movie is one example of the image. Look out for a very aggressive scene between our two leading actors in the jail cell which is also a part of Anderson’s style. The cinematography provided by Mihai Mălaimare, Jr. uses light and colour well to capture the flow of the movie. The original score by Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead rock band is an observant art in the movie.

The movie’s story has been said to be partly based on L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Church of Scientology. There can be many interpretations of the movie and its characters according to the perception of the spectator. Overall, the marvellous acting and peculiar direction with the help of eerie score make for a thought provoking experience. The appropriateness and interpretation of the title of the movie is also a food for thought. The Master is a must watch for drama lovers and cinema critics and fans of Phoenix, Hoffman and Anderson.

To watch the movie, you can get the amazing print at The Master.

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