Review of First Reformed (2018) by Matt D — 30 Nov 2018

Well there really is no doubt that this came from the same mind that brought us 'Taxi Driver'. There were moments when I wondered if it were turning into a full blown remake, but alas the ending pulls it sharply away from that territory.

I think I need more time to fully digest what the film was trying to say but on a pure surface level the movie looks fantastic (the classical aspect ratio really works), Ethan Hawke's performance is top notch, and Schrader captures some truly remarkable shots throughout.

Now excuse me while I resume cringing at the thought of that barbed wire embrace from the film's closing shots.