Room: Movie Review
Based on the novel by Emma Donoghue, “Room” tells the story of a young woman (Brie Larson), who was abducted at the age of 17 and held captive for seven years in a small room. Within that time she gave birth to Jack (Jacob Tremblay) who’s father happens to be the captor. Jack has never experienced anything outside of the small room. When he watches TV, he believes everything he sees is make believe, including the people, animals, houses, etc. Jack and his Ma (Larson) go through the same daily routine. They wake up, move furniture so they can exercise, cook, read, and go to bed. When Jack is asleep, Old Nick aka the captor (Sean Bridgers) enters the room, not only to bring them supplies, but also to have his way with Ma.
When the opportunity presents itself for Jack and Ma to escape, they succeed and now the mother and son must adjust to living in the world. Because Jack has never been outside, his body can’t handle toxins in the air so must wear a mask until his body can adapt. Jack’s grandparents Nancy (Joan Allen) and Robert (William H. Macy) are so happy to have their daughter back, but Robert can’t accept Jack as a part of his family. That is not the case for Nancy’s new husband. Much of “Room” takes place post-escape and focuses on Jack and his mother’s adjustment. Jack is shy at first but Ma’s difficulties adjusting are much more deep rooted. She has trouble accepting the fact that her friends and family carried on with their lives while she was trapped.
“Room” was directed by Lenny Abrahamson (“Frank”) and it is one of the best films of 2015 to date. With award season now in full swing, Larson is a shoe-in for a best actress nomination and I have no doubts that the emotionally draining film will be up for best picture as well. Tremblay who is a relative newcomer is also fantastic. The film is at its best when focused on Ma and Jack. The sequence in which Jack escapes his captivity by playing dead is easily one of the best moments in “Room”.
I have a feeling we will be seeing many great films between now and year’s end, but you should make a little room in your schedule for “Room”.
By: Marc Ferman
