A Brilliant Film!

Rating: 10/10 (24 December 2015)

Tom McCarthy's 'Spotlight' is the Finest Film on Journalism since All The President's Men. No Kidding. This is a fierce, powerful & unforgettable film, that brings a true-story to life. With an Ensemble that delivers like never before, A Screenplay so strong you can't move & Directed with such command, 'Spotlight' is a major achievement from every corner of filmmaking.
'Spotlight' is The true story of how the Boston Globe uncovered the massive scandal of child molestation and cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese, shaking the entire Catholic Church to its core.
The harshest aspect of 'Spotlight' is, that its based on a True-Story. A horrifyingly shocking one. But this is a heroic story about those who went against the church & exposed its demonic priests. Its a challenging, undeniable story, where justice is eventually served to those who deserve nothing but pure punishment.
'Spotlight' works from start to end. McCarthy and Josh Singer's Screenplay is powerful, as disturbing as it is. The Writing refuses to slow-down & the narrative is so engrossing, you can't move from your seat. You watch the heroes uncover a regrettable chapter of human history & the approach in the narrative, is no-holds-barred. Its non-stop, high-powered Drama.
McCarthy's Direction is defines Command. The Director is in top-form & 'Spotlight' is his finest effort to date. No two options on that! Masanobu Takayanagi's Cinematography is first-class. Tom McArdle's Editing is razor-sharp, never allowing the goings-on to slow down at any given time. Howard Shore's score is perfect.
Performance-Wise: 'Spotlight' boasts an ensemble, who are at the peak of their powers. Michael Keaton is astonishing, delivering a yet another power-packed, classy performance. If you thought Birdman was the best he could've ever done, watch 'Spotlight'. The Screen-Legend dominates the show with a career-best turn. Mark Ruffalo is top-notch, as always. The powerhouse talent takes upon his character, like a fish takes to water. Rachel McAdams is a revelation. She surprises you with a nuanced, affecting performance. Brian d'Arcy James is terrific. Live Schreiber (whose Voice is of a lion), is excellent. John Slattery stands on his own & shines in the scenes he's in. Stanley Tucci is matchless, yet again. Billy Crudup does wonders in a bit role. The rest of the cast lend great support.
On the whole, 'Spotlight' is unmissable. It Screams Oscar! I Won't be surprised if a Clean Sweep happens in coming Feb.