Manchester by the Sea Review

Another Great Boston Film 

Released : January 13th 2017

Certificate : 15

Director : Kenneth Lonergan

Cast : Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, Kyle Chandler, Lucas Hedges

Plot : Lee Chandler (Affleck), a handy man working in Manchester, has his life turned upside down by the death of his brother (Chandler).

Kenneth Lonergan returns as writer director of one of this year’s Best Picture hopefuls, Manchester by the Sea. Lonergan has proved himself in the Academy’s eyes before, receiving nominations for his screenplays for the little know You Can Count on Me, and the famous Scorsese period gangster film, Gangs of New York. The film stars relative new comer Lucas Hedges has had very smaller roles till now, supporting in films such as The Zero Theorem and Moonrise Kingdom. However has proved to be one of the biggest surprises of the awards season.

The story is a pure character drama, with characters which are both relatable and original enough to be engaging. The character, as with many Boston set dramas, may not win the audience over immediately, but ultimately become very memorable cinematic characters. The story arc is masterfully told, allowing for backstory to be tastefully spoon fed into the present events and the creation of several beautiful character arcs. The film is lengthy, and the topic matter sombre and dry in parts, but the script and dialogue so well crafted, that the film is a rare drama that feels authentic and is engaging. The story has such an emotional spectrum, which is executed brilliantly. Amazing humour is sprinkled into the film throughout as a fitting way to keep the film grounded and enjoyable.

To address Lonergan contribution, in this award climate it wouldn’t be surprising if his directing efforts went unrewarded. With the likes of Villeneuve, Gibson and Chazelle dealing with larger than life stories and presenting with such flare and spectacle, the subtle work of Lonergan may be forgotten directorally. But this is a shame as the warmth and heartbreak that Lonergan is able to convey, and perfectly capture character drama, is a gem. If it isn’t cliché to say, from the opening shot, the films presentation has passion and calculation. Lonergan skills as a screenwriter are amazing, building characters and their exchanges which are some of the most engaging and life like this year. Hence making the Screenplay Oscars a coin flip between this and Hell or High Water. Not just the main characters but all supporting casts lines, contribute to the story and represent genuine human traits. Not a throwaway line exists within this film, making it a drama that could be enjoyed for hours.

And to round off the growing merits of the film, the performances are stunning. Casey performance for some, as with the majority of his work, may be viewed as underplayed. But the effect made the character much more lifelike, Lee’s emotions aren’t overplayed, or exaggerated to make the drama more engaging. Instead, much alike the script, the acting is subtle which makes for a more authentic cinematic experience. Lucas Hedges role as well is stunning honest in his acting, bringing to life a tricky character who initially may seem shallow, but develops. Michelle Williams is able to bring so much to the film is so few scenes, absent for probably eighty percent of the film, she is still memorable walking out of the theatre.

Manchester by the Sea is an amazing feat of character drama. Each viewpoint and emotion that is delivered by the script and the acting is understandable and emphatic on some level. It is a film with a subtle current, which ultimately pulls you in. While the story line may be one of the saddest of the award season, this is balanced by the amazing sense of humanity and warmth that the actors and script bring to the film.

Verdict : A few with few flaws. It takes the theme of grief and is able to actualize it with such precision and skill. Plus a heartfelt ending, great humour and amazing performances.

Verdict : 5/5

Quote : “I can’t beat it. I can’t beat it. I’m sorry.”