Little happens in visually stunning picture, with superb performances.
In New York City 1981, an ambitious immigrant fights to protect his business and family during the most dangerous year in the city's history.
It’s not that I didn’t like A Most Violent Year, maybe I was just expecting a little more Godfather. This movie portrays a piece of time, not a well-rounded story with a beginning middle and end. It stars of at a point in time and finishes without fully concluding the stories it has set up.
Oscar Isaac’s performance is outstanding, as is that of Jessica Chastain as his wife, the fact the both these actors stand out it this film lacking in plot is a real testament to their performances.
The cinematography is the most superb feature of this movie, set in the 80s this film makes New York look beautiful. While the cinematographer was snubbed at this year’s Oscar Award ceremony he certainly deserves an Oscar for the look of the film.
Overall it is a visually stunning film, with great acting, but no plot. Students of cinematography or acting may appreciate this film, but it is not the Godfatheresq filmed it looked like it was going to be.
1.5 Stars
Review by Benjamin Maio Mackay
Screening courtesy of Palace Nova Cinemas
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