Review of Manchester by the Sea (2016) by Ldweiler — 27 Jan 2017

This is a near perfect domestic drama/character study about a guy whose life was destroyed by a family tragedy. Casey Affleck gives a pitch perfect performance as this broken man, Lee Chandler, whose pain is so large and so deep he can't allow himself to feel, and refuses to accept any responsibility for others.

When his beloved brother dies, leaving a will that nominates Lee to be guardian of his nephew, he is given a chance for redemption, but may be unable to deal with it. Given the constraints of his character, Affleck's portrayal is beautifully nuanced, his depth of feeling is almost painful to watch, and yet quite touching.

In fact all of the performances are spot-on, especially Lucas Hedges as the seventeen year old nephew and Michelle Williams in a searing piece of acting as Lee's ex-wife. Writer/director Lonergan has put together a little masterpiece here.