KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Powerful performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman plunge audiences into the unforgettable world of The Master.
The film chronicles the journey of naval veteran Freddie Quell (Phoenix), who feels all alone until he meets Lancaster Dodd, the leader of a Scientology-esque religious organization.
Dodd, played to unsettling perfection by Hoffman, takes Freddie under his wing. But his devotion to Dodd wavers as he begins to question his faith.
While director Paul Thomas Anderson has tried to downplay the film's Scientology roots, Hoffman's character has too many similarities to founder L. Ron Hubbard for it to be accidental. Even his looks are reminiscent of the famed leader.
But the film transcends any art-imitates-life speculation by the raw talent of its cast.
It's the best film I've seen this year.
"I'm just so proud of this film. I'm proud for Joaquin and Philip that they were able to do such amazing performances," said co-star Amy Adams.
Both Phoenix and Hoffman give flawless performances.
Every single scene with the pair is magical. The entire theater was blown away with some of the most stunning acting I've seen in a long time.
It would be a crime not to give Phoenix the Oscar for Best Actor. He's officially bounced back in Hollywood and is better than ever.
It's going to be a close race for the Oscar this year, but I guarantee this: Phoenix, Hoffman and Anderson will all get Oscar nominations this year.
"Their performances are beyond fierce. It's like nothing I've ever seen before. It's one of those characters that I believe will go down in film history," Adams said.
The Master's cinematic beauty is grounded by its unsettling moments, as Anderson allows his dazzling shots to be tempered by themes of infatuation and incest. It's a bizarre ride, but one infinitely worth taking.
And the Academy will take note -- after all, it's the surreal stuff of which Oscar dreams are made.
FINAL GRADE: A
The Master is rated R for s exual content, graphic nudity and language.
Runtime: 2 hours and 17 minutes.
PRINT
