Coming to terms

Rating: Null/10 (12 February 2016)

One of the best movies depicting a strong parent-child relationship, after the recent 'Babadook'. Those who watched that can find plenty of irony when they get to compare the plot of this one with Jennifer Kent's masterwork.
Though I had seen trailers to this one going in, along with having an idea of all of the plot turns, the narration still managed to hold me, and most of the well behaved audience, in a vise-like grip, all the way through.
Irony is used more than once within this plot itself, to tie everything up quite badly, and though I'm a fan of keeping things ambiguous, this approach does have its merits, especially as used by the director here.
The performances (Brie Larson deserves the Oscar - her performance in 'Short term 12' was overlooked, as does Jacob Tremblay, ably supported by Joan Allen, Sean Bridgers, and William H Macy, in a rare performance, in all of 2 scenes, but hey....) are all top notch, and the minimalist approach in each of the movie's technical departments holds up against tough scrutiny, including the use of its score (fantastic, unique...), works to perfection, and greatly helps in putting us in the middle of the protagonists' lives, front-and- center.
The best movie I've seen all year this year, in spite of some annoying, and unnecessary censorship.
It was strange to note the use of the 2.35:1 aspect ratio, though many mainstream and Indie filmmakers, considering the scope of the subject matter, may have gone in for the narrower 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Not complaining. I very much prefer this aspect-ratio, and it works fabulously, especially when one plot device has an important aspect of depicting an evolving perspective of the outside world, that's beautifully realized, while also being subtle.
Also appreciate the numerous opportunities not taken by the makers to make this a sloppy melodrama, our a powerful drama that plays to the galleries, while preying on base emotions.
Not to be missed. I might go enjoy it once more.