THE MASTER

Imagine the timer on a bomb counting down to a big explosion but when it reaches zero, you realize that the bomb is a dud. That’s how I feel about the plot of this film. The focal point of this tale is the relationship between an aimless/ alcoholic/ sexual deviant World War 2 veteran and a charismatic L. Ron Hubbard-esque writer/ doctor/ nuclear physicist/ theoretical philosopher. What the film lacks in plot it makes up for in dialogue. Frequent explosions of oratory depth coupled with verbal crudeness gives the film distinctiveness not found in current movies. But this film’s strong suit is the mind-blowing performances by Phoenix and Hoffman. My eyes and attention were glued to the screen every time these two characters interacted with one another. The cinematography is proof that widescreen format and depth of field frame composition are alive and kicking. The score music stands out with its abstract melodies and chaotic arrangement. Director P.T. Anderson is probably one of the best cinematic storytellers working today, but this film fails to provide a resolution that satisfies the journey of the characters. The beginning of the story is gripping, the middle sustains interest but the ending is anti-climactic. But alas this is still a “must see” in my book.

Rating: 7/10

S. V. Fernando