Rating of
4/4
A MASTERful work of art.
memento_mori - wrote on 08/31/13
A very enigmatic film, most people don't know how to feel about The Master. I am a huge PTA fan myself, and films such as Magnolia and There Will Be Blood have greatly inspired and influenced me.
The Master took me totally by surprise. This is a gorgeous, poetic and serene film, that has been completely overlooked by the Academy.
Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman were robbed of Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor this year. Two awe-inspiring performances; these two men talking in a scene felt like magic.
Paul Thomas Anderson's direction is mesmerizing. There is not a single shot or frame in this film that seems out of place, it is crafted and polished to perfection, possibly the best looking movie of 2012 (yes, surpassing The Avengers and The Dark Knight Rises).
The script may be the best. Many have inquired that it is about the beginning of Scientology. About sects and people's gullible devotion to them.
I like to think of it more as a study of religion in general. There are so many great scenes that simply hint at the slightest reference of a sect.
The dialogue doesn't even hint at religion. Actually listen to the speeches of Lancaster Dodd. He's just talking gibberish, none of his so-called wisdom makes sense, yet people are so fascinated by his charisma and commitment.
My favorites scenes include Freddie touching the wall and the window and them driving a motorbike in the desert. They solidify to me what The Cause really means. It's to start doing something, setting an example and letting people follow it. It's ingenious.
I see this as a possible modern classic. This is a beautifully made film in all the right ways and passions. Another work of art from one of my favorite directors.
