Midnight Special

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Midnight Special

Post by MmzHrrdb »

“Midnight Special” (2016) 84%

Just like sci-fi flicks such as Spielberg’s “Close Encounters”(1977), “E.T.” (1982) and John Carpenter’s “Starman”(1984). Jeff Nichols’ “Midnight Special” fits right into the genre and it’s enjoyable. Jeff Nichols, the director of such films as “Take Shelter”(2011) and “Mud”(2012), has made a science fiction film with imaginative ideas. With great special effects and powerful visuals, Nichols’ has made one of his best films.

The story is about Roy Tomlin and his biological son Alton Meyer, who both escape from the government and a cult after discovering Alton has super powers. Michael Shannon plays Roy in a very good performance. Shannon who has worked with Nichols on all his films, teams up once again and it’s great.

The film has a lot to do with the father and son relationship of Roy and Alton. How Roy must take care and protect his son. Alton is no ordinary boy, he is not from here and still must deal with trying to be normal. Alton and Roy’s relationship is very important, Alton is like a sick child and Roy is his over protective father.

The feeling of grief, loss, doubt and faith are some of the themes explored in the film. Along with the universe, how it works and the mysteries of life. How we relate to Alton and his father. What the cult represents and what it all really means. Nichols’ screenplay is very intelligent and leaves the audience to make its own conclusions.

This is the story of a boy not like the rest of us. About a cult that devoted itself to him and the religious faith that surrounds him. A boy with superpowers that raises questions that are very supernatural. Where does Alton come from? Where does he belong? Are there others in our world like him?

The cinematography by Adam Stone and music by David Wingo is also really good and should be mentioned. A collaboration of filmmakers that have worked together before and it shows. I think Jeff Nichols has written and directed something out of this world and it works. The acting Is very impressive, Nichols, Shannon, and the rest of the crew is very good. I wonder what they’ll think of doing next?

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