“I’m just going to cut right to the chase. The kind of visceral emotional reaction I had to this movie is rare. Even rarer was that all that occurred during the middle of the movie. But wow this was fantastic. Easily making my year’s top ten, possibly even right behind current winner The Martian. (Then again, we still haven’t seen Tarantino’s latest offering)
I’d heard about the book back when it was first released. I think EW had a review of it or something. I put it on my wish list, and occassionally looked for it at the bookstore. First I put it off thinking I could wait until paperback, and then put it off when I heard about the movie. Now that I’ve seen the movie, I do need to go find the book.
Brie Larson is a mother who has been forced to live in a small one room shed with her five year old son, Jack. She’s been trapped here seven years, and it’s the only home her son has ever known. She’s done her best to keep her son safe and happy, and shielded from their captor’s visits. It seems as though the official synopsis for the film goes further, but I’m going to leave it there, where the book synopsis ends. I’d rather not spoil what happens in the middle that was so affecting, even if it closes up various commentary I could explore.
Larson has been somewhat of an indie darling lately, and may be finally poised for her first oscar nomination (there were those who thought she should have earned that with Short Term 12). I adore her, and she is certainly among my favorites. Watching this, she kept reminding me of Jennifer Lawrence, which I take as a good thing since she is considered the most respected and formidable actress of her (our) generation. Larson carries much of the film and exhibits a wide range of emotions throughout. It’s a very raw and honest performance, and I do hope that she gets the mainstream recognition that seems due her.
However, even more impressive than Larson was her son, played by Jacob Tremblay. Oh my God, this kid is supposed to be five? Clearly, he must be a year or two older, but damn, his would be a difficult role for an adult actor. Okay, quick internet search tells me he was eight when filming, and that he is garnering some awards buzz, which may hinge on whether he goes lead or supporting. Damn. He displayed a maturity beyond his years while still being a wide eyed innocent child. Most of the story is seen thru his eyes, and he’s pretty much in every scene.
Now that pretty much everyone who cares is caught up on The Martian, Room is now going to be my default movie recommendation for the next couple weeks. Such a compelling and striking movie, and worth seeking out as it expands into more theaters
Room – \m/ \m/ \m/ \m/”