Skip to main content

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Spotlight (2015)

What is it about?

The true story of the Boston Globe and their investigation which uncovered the scandal of child molestation and cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese.

Who is in it?

Mark Ruffalo - Mike Rezendes

Michael Keaton - Walter "Robby" Robinson

Rachel McAdams - Sacha Pfeiffer

Favorite Scene:

[spoiler alert]

While sitting in the room right before the story officially went to print, it was revealed to the crew that Robby had the info needed years ago, and never followed through on it. A guilt he must have carried throughout the entire investigation. 

Favorite Quote:

"They say it's just physical abuse but it's more than that, this was spiritual abuse. You know why I went along with everything? Because priests, are supposed to be the good guys."

Review:

Spotlight is a movie that will punch you in the gut. Believe me. It will. The film is surprisingly a very good film, with extraordinary acting, and most of all, an impactful message. And yes, the message is where you will feel the punch the most. 

The story of how this group uncovered the ring of molestation of children by the Catholic Church is thought provoking, and for me, left me troubled with thought and a tad bit angry. 

As stated, where Spotlight shines best is indeed the acting. The film boasts an all-star cast of Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, and one of my absolute favorites, Mark Ruffalo, who really carry the film. 

Spotlight is a fantastic watch. Entertaining, thought provoking, enlightening, and overall, emotional. Definitely a great watch for all. 

Grade: 4.1/5

Recently Read

Quick Ponder: Future Self

We always think,  what would we say  to our  younger self? However,  what would  our younger self say  if they met us, today?

Turning 40 - Grateful and Renewed

I became a forty-year-old individual yesterday.  The milestone is very significant for many and has its societal measures and benchmarks that carry some fear for those approaching its gates. Regardless of approach, turning 40 is filled with reflection, pondering (of course), and preparation for what should be a "new" stage of life. A life stage centered around "transitioning" into a stage seen as the "pre-senior" years.  Sure. Whatever.  I won't disagree that the new "4" digit that sits in front of your age feels encompassing even without understanding completely. Yet, as I stated last year when I turned 39 (going into my 40th year on this earth), I was ready for it. Ready for 40. Today, oddly enough, I am not filled with profound life lessons, ponderings, or reflections.  I sit here, punching the keys, filled with gratitude. I am 40, and I love it.   I carry my baggage of life and bear scars from it at 40. I am grateful for so many experien...

Knicks Trauma - Ugh Not Again

Well, that was a kick in the stomach.  Coming off a week where the word "catharsis" was used as the description for the euphoria and release of joy from two and a half decades of suffering, Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers brought about another word - trauma.  Watching the Knicks collapse was the kind of moments that come with these deep runs and moments. NBA Playoff basketball will do that. Yet, this loss - this one - feels about as bad as the 2004 ALCS when the Yankees collapsed in the series to the Boston Red Sox.  That one carries some serious trauma. Luckily, the series isn't over.  Some other quick thoughts from this awful, awful night, New York Knicks Basketball.  - Not to conjure up hyperbole, or even contribute to "hot take" sports reaction culture - but this might have been the worst loss in Knicks franchise history. I cannot think of another in my lifetime, or historically.  - Tyrese Haliburton's "choke"...