A Most Violent Year

6/10

Isaac and Chastain shine bright in this really dark character study. Clean businesses have to fight to succeed, but once they get there, the fight stops. Dirty businesses fight to succeed even when they are on top

yawn

Rating: 7.7/10

A Most Violent Year is a masterfully crafted and brilliantly acted slow-burn thriller that's a stunning character study. Writer-director J. C. Chandor delivers a patient, atmospheric, and tense portrait of a man trying to maintain his integrity in a corrupt world.

Highlights
- Sharp Screenplay: The screenplay is a complex and morally ambiguous piece of writing that explores the corrupting nature of the American Dream.
- Phenomenal Performances: Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain deliver powerhouse performances as Abel and Anna Morales, a fascinating and complex portrayal of a marriage and business partnership.
- Atmospheric Direction: Chandor's direction is a stunning homage to 1970s New York crime dramas, creating a palpable sense of atmosphere and dread.

Criticisms
- Slow-Burn Pacing: The film is a deliberate and dialogue-heavy slow-burn, which may disappoint viewers expecting a traditional action-packed gangster movie.

Verdict
A Most Violent Year is a brilliant and impeccably crafted crime drama that's a must-see for fans of character-driven thrillers and classic American crime films. It's a tense, intelligent, and atmospheric film that showcases its director and lead actors.

6/10

My first Oscar Isaac viewing. Great