"A Most Violent Year" is a throw back film that can be embraced with open arms. Writer-director J.C. Chandor puts forth a character-driven melodrama that thankfully lacks predictability and includes great dialogue.
Set in New York City in 1981, the film explores the difficulty of keeping violence at bay and begs the question of whether or not it takes more strength to not pull the trigger than to pull it. Is reigning in the desire to lash out when you think you're losing the war really the most difficult part of the battle?
Oscar Isaac delivers a fantastic performance as Abel Morales, a Latin immigrant who started at the bottom and has grown into an upwardly mobile businessman. All he wants is to achieve his version of the American Dream while keeping hold of what he believes is right.
Jessica Chastain also brings a complex character to the table with her portrayal of Anna Morales, daughter of a Brooklyn gangster, wife to Abel and mother to their three daughters. She's tough and she displays that not all wives with husbands in questionable businesses are oblivious to what's going on. Some wives actually do the book cooking themselves.
The dynamic between Isaac and Chastain is so believable and interesting to watch as they both battle and balance one another. Abel may be Latino and Anna a blonde Caucasian, but they are no Tony Montana and Elvira Hancock. They are a true power couple and this is a film to see.
Chandor says that he has ideas for a trilogy that details more adventures from Abel and Anna and if they are anything like this film, movie lovers should be happy to hear it.*
Nikita's Rating: 3.5/4
*Source: http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/la-et-mn-most-violent-year-review-20141231-column.html
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