Review of All the Money in the World (2017) by Ittiaces — 11 Jan 2018

Well, if anyone needed proof as to whether or not Ridley Scott still had "it" as a director then here it is. This movie was an absolute triumph from beginning to end. He took a sombre subject and wove it into a story that effortlessly flowed from scene to scene, skilfully guiding the audience through the emotional turmoil endured by a terrified mother trying to rescue her kidnapped son.

The main characters were well portrayed and had plenty of screen time. The cast is superb, I think this is the best role I've ever seen Mark Wahlberg in. Michelle Williams, as you would expect, delivers a robust and heartfelt performance, really getting under the skin of this misfortunate and desperate woman.

The real star, however, has to be Christopher Plummer who delivers an astounding turn as the billionaire John Paul Getty. At 88, his work here is nothing short of inspiring. The essence of the character he puts forth imbues simultaneous feelings of both hatred and pity.

We get a real sense of a strong, intelligent man confined to an ageing, frail body still striving to understand much of life's frustrating minutiae. Overall, this film is one of Scott's best in many years, it's excellently delivered and definitely deserves all the praise it's currently getting.

Highly recommended.