Skip to main content

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Captain Fantastic (2016)

What is it about? 

A father who raised his kids in the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, is forced to enter the real world, and is challenged by specific values he holds dearly. 

Who is in it? 

Viggo Mortenson - Ben

George McKay - Bo

Samantha Wisler - Kielyr


Favorite Scene: 

After being questioned about the schooling of his kids, Ben challenges his nephews to their thoughts on the Bill of Rights, then has his seven year old show them up with her thoughts. 

Favorite Quote: 

"We're defined by our actions, not our words." 

Review: 

Captain Fantastic is well, fantastic. Sorry, had to use that line. Regardless, the film really is fantastic. The plot is an interesting one, but what makes the film so special is its ability ot force you to think about the values in life and in culture - especially in education and the way we raised our children. 

The focus on critical thinking and truth is a key concept that is raised, and how we beleive the way we are structured in society is vehemently the best possible way for all involved. Captain Fantastic raises that question, while also bringing up the idea of finding the right balance between critical thinking and real world exploration. 

Viggo Mortenson is super authentic, and what makes the film gold is the role the children play. 

All in all, definitely give this film a watch as it's surely worth the watch. 

Grade: 4/5

Recently Read

Quick Ponder: Parental Reverance

Are these the moments of hard work and sacrifice, in front of my kids, that I hold my parents in reverence for? 

Sunday Sundown Rundown - 1/12/25

3 Up 1. California Fire Fighters - From nearby and even across international borders (some even imprisoned), a lot has to be offered to the firefighters who made their way to Southern California this week to help control this massive natural disaster.  2. Human Spirit - People who opened their homes to others. Businesses that provided free services and assistance. The outpouring of donations and so much more. People can be awesome at times.  3. Medical Debt - This seems like a pretty big deal, no?! Why should your health and the needs for your care affect your credit score?  3 Down 1. California Wildfires - Awful. There's not much you can place into words here that would capture so many people losing their homes, their lives, and everything. 2. Politicized Wildfires - As much as the human spirit took center stage, of course, we gotta make things political in this nation. Because, you know, there's an opportunity to do so.  3. Extreme Weather - There's just a whole l...

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Rio (2011)

What is it about?  Blu, a domesticated macaw bird from Minnesota is off to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in order to save his species by meeting, an independent macaw, Jewel. After meeting, the two embark on an adventure to reconnect with Blu's owner, but end up having an adventure that will change their lives.  Who is in it?  Jesse Eisenberg - Blu Anne Hathaway - Jewel George Lopez - Rafael