Midnight Special
Director: Jeff Nichols
Starring: Michael Shannon, Kirsten Dunst, Adam Driver…
Grade: A
A young boy has gone missing. Seemingly kidnapped by his own father (Shannon) and his father’s boyhood friend (Joel Edgerton) we quickly come to learn that it’s not just the police looking for this boy but members of the cult like ranch where he grew up and the government.
I missed this in theaters but was very much looking forward to it. The other night when I rented it was pretty late so I thought I’d watch the beginning and then finish the rest the next day and I wound up watching it straight through and being completely intrigued and entertained.
The movie really throws you right into the action so you have to play a little bit of catch-up and I know some people weren’t thrilled with the answers that you do get. But honestly, I thought it was perfect. The whole story leaves you intrigued and asking questions but for me they were questions I could live with.
The performances are all really good. This isn’t a very talky movie lots of looks and silences but the actors make it work. (Meanwhile Adam Driver’s voice… I could listen to him talk about anything for ages apparently!) Kirsten Dunst was very good in a small role and I love the fact she’s getting such meaty stuff recently. The movie really reminds me a lot of Stranger Things and much like that the young actor Jaeden Lieberher is very strong and very good in the role.
I also found it to be a strangely beautiful movie. It basically takes place on backroads and motels. But it felt real and raw. I don’t want to say too much about the end but they did a wonderful job with that as well. It wasn’t overpowering or unbelievable but emotional- but it’s a film worth watching without spoilers so I’ll leave it at that.
Recommend: Yes. I’ll definitely be checking out more of Jeff Nichols films in the future.