Cast: Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay, Joan Allen, William H. Macy
Genre: Drama
Dwight's Rating: 4 STARS
Yes, FOUR stars!!
"Room" is the first film to receive that rating since "Reel to Real" began reviews in 2014. It is simply excellent, and quite possibly the very best movie of 2015, and one of the most amazing movies I've seen in years.
This timely and unforgettable story touches on so many of our human fears and emotions. It excels on all levels, including spectacular performances from all of its amazing cast members. The premise is quite simple. Held captive for years in an enclosed space, Joy (Brie Larson) and her 5-year-old son Jack (Jacob Tremblay) finally gain their freedom, allowing the boy to experience the outside world for the first time.
The story takes viewers on what is bound to be an emotional rollercoaster. From anger and sadness with the disturbing experience of Joy and Jack's life inside this tiny "room", to anxiety with the story's seamless transition into an edge-of-your-seat thriller - as exciting as any blockbuster popcorn flicks seen last summer. Then "Room" delves into analyzing the impact of this trauma, from every character's perspective. It is a powerful experience, leaving no stone unturned.
Amazing in its simplicity, with no special effects or gimmicks, "Room" is great storytelling. That we get a talented cast along with this beautifully written and directed drama is icing on an already delectable cake.
Brie Larson, who played Amy Schumer's sister in "Trainwreck", gives a star-making performance as Joy. She has been earning rave reviews and winning awards left, right and center, including the Golden Globe and Critic's Choice Awards. She's also up for the British BAFTA, Screen Actor's Guild (SAG), and of course, the Academy Award, and she is the frontrunner in the Best Actress race.
Larson is indeed great. But for me, it is Jacob Tremblay who really is the star here. This 9-year old Canadian is simply amazing from beginning to end. It's unfortunate that he has not received as much award recognition. He did win the Critic's Choice Award for Best Younger Performer, and is up for a SAG award for outstanding performance in a supporting role, and will compete against big name actors including Christian Bale ("The Big Short"), and Idris Elba ("Beasts of No Nation"). But alas, there was no Oscar love.
Nevertheless, you will likely never forget this youngster's heartbreaking and heartwarming performance, or that of any member of the cast. You would have to have frozen ice water in your veins to not be moved by some part of this film.
I watched "The Revenant" and "Room" on the same weekend, and was certain that the art of filmmaking was in as strong and healthy a state as ever in its history.
Unfortunately "Room" has not made it to local theaters as yet. And theatergoers need to lobby hard for this exceptional work of art to be seen here. It is a film not to be missed. The definition of excellence!
o Dwight Strachan is the host/producer of " Morning Blend" on Guardian Radio. He is a television producer and writer, and an avid TV history and film buff. Email dwight@nasguard.com and follow him on twitter @morningblend969.
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