'The Master' Fails to Dominate

‘The Master’ stars Joaquin Phoenix as navy war veteran, Freddie Quell, who is undecided about his future. Through his uncertain journey, he finds Lancaster Dodd, (Philip Seymour Hoffman), and thus embarks on “The Clause.” This clause is a cult and its fierce manipulative leader is Lancaster. The film focuses on the strange relationship that Freddie and Lancaster create throughout their “therapy” sessions. Lancaster has the ability to manipulate minds and breakdown and analyze relationships, such as the master vs. slave.

‘The Master’ is difficult to understand, and somewhat pointless. There is no buildup or climax, the scenes are scattered throughout the film and the audience is left not knowing where this film and the wasted two hours and forty minutes are going.

The only reason to ever watch this random, strange compilation of scenes is for the acting. Phoenix is remarkable as a soldier dealing with post traumatic stress disorder and struggling with his alcoholic tendencies. Philip Seymour Hoffman is great as this meandering, controlling yet somewhat likable character. Amy Adams delivers a fine performance as well, as Lancaster’s strong charming wife. Unfortunately, the film was confusing, and disappointing that it was hard to understand these great characters, and where they were going. There was not much of a beginning, middle or end and therefore the characters are stuck in time with no where to go and no where to build from. The whole film the audience awaits a breakthrough between Freddie and Lancaster, hoping Freddie will get better and there relationship will be different. There is never a buildup of anything, and the audience is left with questions and anger.

In conclusion, ‘The Master’ is not recommended to anyone, unless they enjoy long, meaningless films filled with nudity, alcohol and weird cult related activities.

Be sure to tune in tomorrow night 7:00et/4:00pt on ABC for the 85th Annual Academy Awards to see if nominees Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, or Amy Adams take home an Oscar!