Review of A Most Violent Year (2014) by Brett H — 20 Jan 2015

A somewhat mis-leading title aside, this low-key crime drama is surprisingly engaging due to the strong cast and brimming atmosphere. Jessica Chastain is amazing as an icy descendant of a top-gangster but this is truly Oscar Isaac's movie and he is flawless channeling a young Al Pacino with his quiet demeanor.

The story is very simple, but feels realistic with a slower pace and time to flesh the issues out; this is not your typical gangster film. Those going in expecting a bloodbath should be warned that most of the aforementioned "violence" occurs off-screen or just involves hand-to-hand combat, the title more serves as the backdrop to the time-period and fills the film with a gloomy tone.

It's not for everyone and many may find it dull, but I was invested throughout thanks to some solid writing and two excellent performances!