Review of Take Shelter (2011) by Monica T — 13 Apr 2012

The story line, ok. The terror? not so much. But what I loved about this movie was Michael Shannon's ability to portray the intense conflict of impending doom against Curtis' deep commitment to his family. Shannon was brilliant. In a brief search of his interviews he comes off as an unassuming slacker with an awareness of how his physique/facial muscles get him somewhat typecast. But man! In this movie he shows just how talented he is. He took the typecast and then blew it up with struggling tenderness. I also commend the writers on the strength of Jessica's character, Samantha. Her part in the last half of the movie was the real surprise for me.

Warning. Even with the psychotic/apocalyptic overtones, this is definitely a romantic movie. As much as I loved Samantha's response in the shelter, not sure in reality it was a safe choice for a mom. I'm also curious of the response of those who have real experience with psychosis. Were the inept medical responses to Curtis a true reflection? How did those with experience perceive Samantha's 'cure'? Seemed a bit like 'love with heal you' fantasy. That said, all the 'powerhouse' performance comments posted many times before this late entry stand strong.