Review of Doubt (2008) by Eytan D — 19 Dec 2012
A superior play gets an equally superior film adaptation with its own creator at the helm of the screenplay and the camera. John Patrick Shanley's "Doubt" is a fascinating and thought-provoking film that is not just about the scandalous molestation of children by priests many years ago, but also about the high degree of uncertainty in religion, society, and life.
Did Father Flynn do such a monstrous thing? The answer is left entirely up to the viewer in a suspenseful and dramatic plot that keeps the audience tied up in knots. A great portion of the movie's success is based on the cast.
Meryl Streep is perfect, as always, as Sister Aloysius and Philip Seymour Hoffman is just right as Father Flynn. Amy Adams provides a good-natured and subtle performance as Sister James. Viola Davis's screen time as Mrs.
Miller is very brief, but her one important scene is a powerhouse of emotion. She is a demanding presence on screen, and deserves every ounce of attention as one of Hollywood's best actresses. "Doubt" makes a successful transition from stage to screen and never feels overly theatrical.
That is how you know Shanley has made a winning picture.
This review of Doubt (2008) was written by Eytan D on 19 Dec 2012.
Doubt has generally received positive reviews.
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