Review of Manchester by the Sea (2016) by David%20 K — 07 Jun 2017

Lee Chandler seems to exist in a permanent state of stoic despair. Despite the film's humour, there is no moment where he is able to escape his stagnant condition of misery. But the film does not attempt to present conventional themes of overcoming loss, rather it serves to explore the idea of enduring stoicism.

Lee seems to exist outside the superficialities of day to day life. His inability to conform to standards of social etiquette (refusing to engage in small talk and be polite to those he meet) is representative of his indifference to the world around him.

As a janitor, he witnesses his clients complaining and discussing the various worries they are confronted with. Yet Lee remains in his state of indifference. A client confesses their love to him, and he remains emotionless.

His relationship with his nephew is built on an unspoken sense of comfortability, and security they feel with one another. This is contrasted with the superficiality of Patrick's meeting with his mother.

The final shot of the two broken relatives fishing serves perfectly to underline the nature of their relationship.