Room - a beautiful movie

Rating: 10/10 (15 March 2020)

Room is a deeply psychological film about a mother, Joy, and her 5 year-old son, Jack, who grew up locked in a 10x10 shed, never seeing the outside world.
The first part of the movie walks us through their daily lives in the room, as well as some special situations, such as Jack's 5th birthday, arguments between Joy and Jack, and Joy's struggle to explain that there is more to the world than the room they live in.
The film excels at portraying the frustration that comes with trying to explain such concepts to a child who has only ever seen trees and animals on an old TV. Brie Larson's performance is outstanding.
Room climaxes with a successful escape plan in which Jack plays dead and fools Old Nick into taking him outside, where he manages to come in contact with a helpful man who calls the police. One of the officers patiently questions the child and finally frees Joy from the shed. The reunion scene between Joy and Jack is one of my favorites. The sheer relief on Joy's face as she realizes that they are finally free is priceless.
The story then continues with Joy trying to reintegrate in society and with Jack adjusting to an immense new world. This is a highly unusual situation, considering that most kids get to know the world as they grow up. It is hard for Jack to comprehend his environment, fact which makes him wish to return to the shed.
The film realistically portrays Joy's exhaustion and sadness about Jack's reactions but also never gives the impression that all hope is lost.
Room is definitely one of the most beautiful movies I have seen recently.