Intense, unsettling, very plausible and very, very good

Rating: 9/10 (4 May 2020)

If you were planning to study psychology, psychiatry or whatever is related to these, you will have to watch this film. I am neither a psychologist nor a psychiatrist, but I dare say that is irrevelant in this case.
What you watch when watching this film is a very plausible explanation why someone will do the things he ultimately does. Not because of one single reason, but for multiple reasons. The worst thing is, he feels he will become what everyone fears someone may become because of just one of those many reasons.
This is not a film for the faint hearted. Nor is it a film for young(er) people (ok, there is an R rating, but nonetheless). This is not a film one 'enjoys'. This film leaves a lot to be thought about. Society, the people that are neglected by it is possibly a better way of putting it.
I am not a professional as stated before, but those people who were afraid this film might lead to more aggression, they are wrong (have been wronged is probably better), so very wrong. This film will not incite aggression - it will prevent it.
Superhero or supervillain story? Not in the slightest way. This is a psychological thriller, it's a case study. An example of someone who tries to do his best not to become that person he knows he could become Maybe even fears he will become.
The film is good, but Phoenix is the X-factor. My God, his acting is so intense, he really transforms into his filmpersona. Of course the film is all about his character, but the way he performs, the way he portrays his character, I think all the rewards he has received prove that this is something one seldom sees.
If you haven't seen this film - please do. If you have seen it - you will undoubtedly agree with what I've written.