Dome Pondering Movie Review: Manchester By The Sea (2016)

What is it about?

An uncle is asked to take care of his nephew after his brother's death, while coming to grips with his own issues.

Who is in it?

Casey Affleck - Lee Chandler

Kyle Chandler - Joe Chandler

Michelle Williams - Randi Chandler

Favorite Scene:

While walking, Lee runs into Randi who wants to apologize and make up for the past. The two have a weird but trying embrace before Lee bows out because he's not ready to deal with it all.

Favorite Quote:

"I can't beat it. I can't beat it. I'm sorry.

Review:

I think I may have had too much of an expectation for this film AFTER The Oscars. And can you blame me? Casey Affleck won a big time Oscar for the role. Regardless, Manchester By The Sea was a really, really good film. And yes, the tremendous acting carried it.

The best part about MBTS is the authenticity of the characters. All of them are so real, so deep, so through in the complexities of the situation and their lives. Especially, how they each deal with the situation that is presented to them. This is especially enriched once the flashbacks of a horrific day comes is unveiled, and you gain understanding of what makes Lee so troubled, and in some ways, how you root for his overall growth.

And as mentioned, there is the acting. The obvious - yes, Casey Affleck was tremendous in his role as Lee. However, for some reason, I felt that Michelle Williams was fantastic in her short spurts, and that Lucas Hedges really brought the film to another level in his role as Patrick. And as always, I have to show love to my Friday Night Lights alums - Kyle Chandler is boss.

My only gripe? The ending felt flat. Just me. But the film just felt like it hung there after the credits started to roll.

Overall, Manchester By The Sea was fantastic. The acting alone is worth the watch.

Review: 4.5/5

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