Why do critics consider Joaquin Phoenix's role in this film one of the best in his career? Let's find out together with zoomboola.com.
When Cinema Doesn't Entertain but Turns Inside Out
"The Master" (2012) is a rare film that immediately positions itself as a work of art. There are no familiar plot twists, easy answers, or characters that are easy to relate to.Paul Thomas Anderson, the creator of "There Will Be Blood" and "Licorice Pizza," immerses the viewer in the complex relationship between two men—war veteran Freddie Quell ( Joaquin Phoenix ) and the charismatic cult leader Lancaster Dodd (Philip Seymour Hoffman).
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kinopoisk.ru
No Compromises: How "The Master" Brought Back the Magic of Big Cinema
The film was a true experiment for both Anderson and his actors. After all, "The Master" is the first feature film shot entirely on 65mm film since Kenneth Branagh's "Hamlet" (1996).When Every Take Feels Like a Leap Without a Parachute
Actors hardly rehearsed scenes in advance—the director wanted complete spontaneity, with emotions bursting right in front of the camera. Often, scenes that took up one-eighth of a page were shot over a day and a half. "Paul just let me use up the film," says Phoenix.Additionally, unique "processing sessions" inspired by Scientology techniques were conducted on set. Anderson wanted the stars to experience mind manipulation on a physical level, though he tried not to delve into religious matters.
"Just a Dog, Just a Monkey"
Many critics agree: Phoenix's role in "The Master" is the best of his career. His character is a walking wound, a person without a purpose, with an animal fear of real life. Freddie, like Arthur Fleck from "Joker", never found a place in society. It's unclear what made Phoenix's character so incapable — the horrors of war, a difficult childhood, or the liters of moonshine he brews from anything he can find. As the actor himself says, his character is "just a dog, just a monkey, guided by instincts or impulses." At the same time, Joaquin emphasizes that perhaps he never fully understood his character.Filming on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
In this role, Phoenix is unrecognizable. Although the director didn't insist on it, the actor noticeably lost weight before the filming began. His face is gaunt like that of a medieval saint, and he constantly mutters incoherently and giggles.Joaquin enters the frame hunched over with his fists pressed against his lower back, and his hands tremble like those of a chronic alcoholic. "Phoenix doesn't settle for half-measures. Watching him is both fascinating and frightening," writes critic David Edelstein.
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imdb.com
Two Titans, One Battle
Many viewers agree on one thing: "The Master" is not just a film, but a living monument to two great actors. Phoenix and Hoffman created such a powerful on-screen duo that it cannot be taken apart.Their characters are drawn to each other, repel, destroy, and find each other again. The chemistry between the actors is palpable. It's no surprise that the film's premiere at the Venice Film Festival ended with rapturous applause. The lead actors shared the Best Actor award, a rare occurrence in cinematic history.
Why "The Master" is Important Right Now — Even More Than in 2012
More than 10 years have passed since the premiere of "The Master," yet the film still feels hauntingly relevant and engaging to audiences, as evidenced by its high rating on IMDb. It is a timeless story about people who have lost their bearings and are willing to cling to any system, any idea—just to avoid facing their own emptiness.In the era of social media, infogurus, and new cults, "The Master" resonates even more sharply than it did in 2012. "I truly hope that people can revisit the film and enjoy it as much as I do. I am very proud of it," concludes the director.
Films for Those Ready for the Truth
There are films that are simply pleasant to watch in the evening with tea. And then there are films that make you feel uncomfortable, uneasy, maybe even unpleasant — but you certainly won't forget them. "The Master" is exactly such a film."This is a supremely confident work by a unique director, markedly different from standard Hollywood fare: it's bold and compelling," writes film critic Peter Bradshaw for The Guardian.
At zoomboola.com, we regularly write about cult films and are sure: "The Master" is one of the few instances where art makes us look into ourselves. And such films are worth watching at any time.
What do you think — is "The Master" really Joaquin's best role, or do you have your own favorite? Share your thoughts — let's discuss together!
