Powerful and thought provoking

Rating: 9/10 (1 January 2016)

"Spotlight" is about the Boston Globe's investigation into the allegations of child abuse by some of the priests in the Catholic Church. In a similar style to "All the President's Men," we follow the newspaper's team as they uncover awful truths and cover-ups. The story presents a bit more of a personal touch for the main characters as we observe how they are affected, and ultimately impacted from what they discover. In part, this is what makes "Spotlight" such a compelling and thought-provoking film. The scenes where the victims share their stories are powerful and heart rendering.
Even though the investigation keeps the movie's plot moving steadily, it is the performances that make the film memorable. Michael Keaton and Mark Ruffalo stand out in particular. Their characters are opposite ends of the spectrum. Ruffalo is passionate and intense as Mike Rezendes whereas Keaton is more reserved and calm as Will Robby Robinson. Both mold into their roles so well that I failed to see them as actors. The rest of the cast is sublime, even Rachel McAdams as the emotionally attached Sacha Pfeiffer.
"Spotlight" is a great movie. It is engaging, powerful, compelling, and thought provoking. The film will leave you with much to think about, especially if you attend an organized religion.