If theres one feat Paul Schrader's First Reformed succeeds in, it is in its portrayal of absolute torment. In this 2017 sleeper, Ethan Hawke is Pastor Ernst Toller, whose tragic backdrop & envelopment by worldly concerns spearheads an extreme crisis of faith. Schrader delivers impressive work here, through direction & screenplay that is headlined by fantastic narration, capturing the searing details that elaborates Toller's onset of spiritual struggle, & downward spiral born from his obsession over relevant issues. Schrader then veers away from ridiculous ideologies & theological jargons as reasons for Toller's personal challenges, and the result is nothing short of affecting. Hawke's performance as well deserves note, as he dons the necessary brokenness & subtle viciousness Scharder's characters are famous for, a compelling Travis Bickle rendition of sorts.
As the credits roll, Schrader's perfectly acted tale centered on existential woe then resounds. First Reformed sees the esteemed screenwriter in his comfort zone with thought provoking themes, told through a personal story drenched with staggering cruelties. Not everyone's cup of tea I imagine. 7/10.
As the credits roll, Schrader's perfectly acted tale centered on existential woe then resounds. First Reformed sees the esteemed screenwriter in his comfort zone with thought provoking themes, told through a personal story drenched with staggering cruelties. Not everyone's cup of tea I imagine. 7/10.