Review of The Accountant (2016) by Daniel M — 08 Aug 2017

Ben Affleck is superb in the role of the protagonist Wolff. His portrayal is both awkward and centred, an accurate and respectful interpretation of an individual with autistic challenges. JK Simmons is, as he typically is (i.e. Whiplash), a deliverer of three dimensional characters that is developed over time from an initially dislikable two dimensional generic mean boss, to one with human strengths and weaknesses and a level of self honesty that is very well done.

As the film progresses, Affleck infuses more depth into his character, the whole thing builds like the paintings that are are first glance ancillary but as we watch become mirrors for the characters.

Anna Kendrick does a decent job in her role and I for one am grateful that the director did not do the expected thing with the young female role. This decision lessens her participation but makes the character more memorable and likable.

Without spoilers, I didn't guess about Bernthal's character until very close to the reveal and the final other character reveal I will not go into because it is brilliantly done, and extremely subtle.

This more mature Affleck is really turning very high quality, and I think he has more in him.