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A sobering look at life and death.
Written and directed by Kenneth Lonegran, this $8.5 million dollar drama film did surprisingly
well following its wide release in December 2016 - receiving widespread critical acclaim,
and $60 million in ticket sales.
When his brother dies suddenly, Casey Affleck is asked to take care of his teenage nephew,
Lucas Hedges.
Set against the backdrop of its drab, wintertime setting in the titular New England town, the
two-hour and seventeen minute feature is carefully photographed with long takes and waist-high
wide shots.
There's nothing showy or artistic about the treatment; as Lonegran allows his cast to
deliver their tearful and restrained monologues without hindrance or artifice.
"Manchester By The Sea" impresses thanks to these raw performances; especially Affleck's
challenging role.
This is a character that has experienced unthinkable tragedy, who has resigned himself to lifelong
depression by confessing, "I can't beat it.
I can't beat it."
Opposite, the young Hedges is a breakout talent, exhibiting glimpses of real understanding.
In addition to the brilliant work from Michelle Williams, three of the R-rated movie's six
Academy Award nominations were for acting.
This film is not uplifting or even enjoyable... but somehow still necessary and relatable.
Anyone who's ever experienced a loss will be able to connect to the movie's cold and
resigned approach to death.
"Manchester By The Sea" is a heartbreaking drama thanks to understated performances.
Not exactly one I'm eager to revisit, I still thought it was very GREAT.
That does it for this quick excerpt - but if you'd like to watch full episodes of "Movie
Night", and submit your own reviews to be included on the show, please visit the Jogwheel
YouTube channel.
My name is Jonathan Paula, thanks for watching and have a good Movie Night!