Review by George Kozera for Mr. Will Wong
Acclaimed Screenwriter/Director James Gray (Ad Astra, The Yards, The Lost City of Z) returns to the big screen after a three-year absence with his most personal and assured work to date. Set in Queens, New York in 1980, ARMAGEDDON TIME is a semi-autobiographical, atmospheric Dramedy that features outstanding performances and will resonate strongly after the theatre curtain falls.
Paul Graff (played by Michael Banks Repeta with finesse and assurance that belies his young age) befriends Johnny (a memorable performance from Jaylin Webb) as they both excel at being humourously disruptive in class, though Johnny, being Black, gets the brunt of the blames and punishments. Their friendship forms a strong bond, though both come from very different backgrounds. Paulâs family, a Jewish, financially-comfortable, and politically aware with a caring mother Esther (Anne Hathaway), somewhat dull father Irving (Jeremy Strong) and a wise and charming grandfather Aaron (Anthony Hopkins) differ from Johnnyâs, who lives with a frail, ailing grandmother. In essence, this coming-of-age story eschews nostalgia in favour of family values and learning opportunities with great success.
As proven with âThe Immigrantâ, Grayâs strengths as a director are with period set storylines and capturing memorable performances from his Cast. Playing Maryanne Trump (yesâŚfrom THAT family!), Jessica Chastainâs cameo as she talks about not expecting things to be handed to you is electrifying. Tovah Feldshuh (currently on Broadway with Lea Michele and garnering raves in the revival of âFunny Girlâ) registers beautifully with quiet, dignified grace as Paulâs grandmother. Anne Hathaway is in peak form and Jeremy Strong is already getting Oscar buzz for his nuanced performance that is hypnotic and at times shocking. But it is Anthony Hopkins who deliciously steals ARMAGEDDON TIME. Every scene he is in crackles with wisdom, humour and dignity. He embodies the Grandpa you wish you had sitting next to you at the dining room table staring down at platters of bagels and lox.
ARMAGEDDON TIME, showcases some stunning Cinematography by Darius Khondji, moves at an intentionally leisurely pace as its storylines detour into remarkable destinations. It is a journey strongly recommended to take as each objective is filled tears of joy or sadness and will end in a glorious conclusion.
Universal Pictures Canada and Focus Features release ARMAGEDDON TIME November 4, 2022.
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