Review of Boyhood (2014) by Ellis W — 10 May 2015

Initially Boyhood may come across as a bit underwhelming, as people may go in expecting hard-hitting drama with several emotionally explosive plot points, but it offers none of that. What it does offer is one of the most naturalistic and humanist pieces of cinema to be seen in many years.

Richard Linklater wants to present life in its purest cinematic form - abstract, slight, and coherent, it gives you this little boy and lets you watch his life as he grows up. It doesn't offer a viewpoint, a perspective, or toned up Hollywood powerhouse drama, and upon reflection, you will really come to respect that.

Supporting performances from Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke are staggeringly nuanced, with all interactions feeling genuine, no questions asked. It's the kind of film where less is more, by not offering a viewpoint, not rushing to heartbreaking dramas, being patient and filming over 12 years to simply portray a child growing up, Linklater proves himself as one of the most thoughtful and nourishing directors in the history of cinema.