Review of Captain Fantastic (2016) by Robby K — 28 Nov 2016

Most films revolving around personal and social values can get very overbearing with one side's opinion being drilled into our heads. "Captain Fantastic", however does a great job of allowing the audience to form their own views around the situation's put in front of them.

Viggo Mortensen is by far the biggest stand out in the movie, but the six actors and actresses portraying his children give him a run for his money in various scenes. Single Minded people may find this movie a little preachy at times, but anyone somewhat open to different ideals will see merit in every character in the film from Mortenson to Frank Langella who if you stand on one side could be the de facto villain, or possibly the voice of reason.

There are a couple of characters that aren't fleshed out at much as one would maybe hope, but it's certainly not a glaring weakness to the film. There are also a couple of scenes that feel very hollywoodized and while it may take you aback for a moment, they tend to be followed up by a very captivating scene that more than makes up for it.

It's ultimately here to make us think while also telling a semi-adventure story in the process, to which it succeeds.