Review of Manchester by the Sea (2016) by Jonathan K — 27 Feb 2017

I don't think I have been more disappointed by a movie in quite a while. While Casey Affleck was outstanding and his Oscar was well deserved, the rest of the movie seemed like a disjointed mess. The story continually jumps back and forth between past and present. And while I am sure this is intended to make the movie seem "smart" or that those that don't get it are not smart, that is not the case. I completely understood what was happening and when. It is just that the chaotic non-linear telling blunted, if not removed completely, any emotional attachment to the character(s).

The explanation for why Affleck's Lee is such a broken man is presented as if told by a 5 year old. With key details left out until offered up later at the prompting of other characters. In addition, while the events were truly tragic and sad, they movie gives only a glimpse into why you should care that this happened to Lee, prior to the tragic event. It is as if someone were to tell you that something bad happened to someone you had spoken to at a party once for five minutes. While you would surely not be happy and feel bad for that person, emotionally it would not have the same effect as if you spent time with that person and actually got to know them.

Beyond Affleck's performance, the rest of the cast seems to be trying to wring whatever emotion they can out of their limited screen time and everything seems forced. Michelle Williams final scene with Affleck is one of the few moments where another actor seems to be on par with Affleck.

My feelings on the movie may be slightly skewed based on the fact that I had heard nothing by GLOWING reviews of the film. I had high expectations, and they were not even close to being met. If you have not seen it yet, hopefully my thoughts can help bring your own expectations a little closer to earth and you can enjoy it more than I did.