An Emotionally Powerful Film

Rating: 10/10 (3 July 2017)

This film blew me away in all the right ways. I admit I cried a few...well more then a few times. What sells it for me is the superb acting by 4 people in particular. Andrew Garfield was outstanding, a completely different role and a real showcase of skill compared to the disappointing Amazing Spider-Man series. He portrays Doss beautifully in a way I think he would approve of. Watching him go through the struggles to become what he is and staying true to who you are and what you believe was what made me quite emotional throughout. Vince Vaughn, goodness what a surprise. He needs to be in more roles like this rather than the stale, run-of-the-mill comedies he often stars in. This is an entirely different Vince Vaughn that we rarely get to see. I was at first legitimately intimidated by his performance in a good way. As the film went on you see he's not a bad guy. As a whole Vaughn does a great job portraying such a complex character, that I thought he would never be able to pull off, I'm glad to say, he surprised me. Sam Worthington, going from the cocky but respectable Jake Sully in Avatar, to this powerful performance. He isn't in the much but when he is it is a delight to see. And lastly, Hugo Weaving, again like Worthington he isn't in it much, but he adds some mustard to this spicy film, and is different from what we are use to. Not make-up riven, just classic and wonderful on-screen acting. The film as a whole is beautifully done and Mel Gibson shows he can direct. Say what you will about the man, but he can direct. The music by Rupert Gregson-Williams is heartwarming, and the on-screen action is riveting. What else is their to say, I loved this film, and teaches self-worth in a way no other film has done. That's why it gets a perfect score, great film! Now to grade: Acting: A+ Music: A, Effects: A, Directing: A+, Story/Plot: A+. Overall: A+