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| Jessica Chastain can "crunch our numbers" anytime |
Taking the High Road
Rotten Tomatoes Plot: Set during the winter of 1981(statistically one of the most crime-ridden of New York City's history) A MOST VIOLENT YEAR is a drama following the lives of an immigrant and his family as they attempt to capitalize on the American Dream, while the rampant violence, decay, and corruption of the day drag them in and threaten to destroy all they have built.
Conspicuously light on violence, J.C. Chandor's third feature hits the mark as an effective drama (with hints of suspense.) Oscar Isaac is cool personified, although maddeningly reluctant to "let loose," while Jessica Chastain delights as his feistier wife/mindful business partner. Has a Drive feel to it... minus the dramatic conclusion. I kept waiting for some type of explosion, but it never comes. That said, it's still plenty good... just not what I expected. Chastain deserves an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress: Man, is she good or what? Chandor captures the era dead-on, improving his movie record to 3-0.
Grade: B
