Outstanding. Truly Moving

Rating: 10/10 (21 March 2016)

I watched this film not expecting to like it. I am drawn to a different type of film. To say that I was blown away by this film is an understatement. This film is almost indescribable it's so good. This is the kind of film we get when everyone involved is at the top of their game. You can't just credit director Lenny Abrahamson, or screenwriter Emma Donoghue, or stars Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay, or composer Stephen Rennicks solely. This was a team effort. Brie Larson gives the bets acting performance of this decade as Joy/Ma, a mother lost at sea, metaphorically speaking. Jacob Tremblay gives a performance way beyond his years. The Academy made a serious mistake not nominating him for an award. Joan Allen, in what little screen time she has, gives one of, if not the most unappreciated performance of the year. Lenny Abrahmson has been quietly going about his business in Ireland. He certainly shocked most people with this film. His talent is undeniable and the Academy Award nomination was just the reward he warranted. Emma Donoghue's novel and script are both outstanding, and I believe that The Big Short was lucky to win the Adapted Screenplay award. Stephen Rennicks is a complete unknown in the world of film composing. I feel this may change. His work on this film is a revelation. The moment in this film where all the people named above are at their best is when Ma runs to the police car in which Jack is waiting. The slow-motion running is astounding. The music is extremely moving. Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay are as good as they were for the rest of the film. I don't know why I waited so long to see this film. I regret waiting to watch it and to anyone out there who wants to see the best film of 2015, or the decade, I urge you to stop reading this and go watch it. You will be better for it.