The Master

Not Quite Pygmalion

No plot? Not worth your time? Worst film in 25 years? These writers miss the point. In fact, the story is an alternative Pygmalion. Dodd tries against all odds and against his family's warnings to reform the pitiful, disturbed Quell, perhaps to demonstrate to himself that his "preaching" really does work. Unlike Henry Higgins, however, Dodd fails. Eliza Doolittle took the bait, but Freddie Quell ran away and joyously resumed his aimless life of booze and sex. Dodd's singing of "Slow Boat To China" to Quell, far from being hokey, is a revelatory moment, summing up the film's meaning, emphasizing that he would have loved to have been able to work on Quell over a longer time without distractions if only Quell weren't so incorrigible.

No plot, No point!

I'm a big a big fan of Hoffman. Both he and Phoenix are wonderful actors. The problem with "the Master" is the script.. and the plot. Or rather the LACK of a plot. There really is no story being told here, after Phoenix's character first meets Hoffman's early in the film. After that the movie can be described as incoherent scenes which do not work at moving the characters forward. The movie was a big disappointment, and a waste of a lot of acting talent. Not even worth a $1 rental at Redbox.

Worst Film I've Seen in 25 years!

THE MASTER is a gorgeous mess. Production values are wonderful. HOWEVER, the plot and script are 90% incomprehensible. The two leads look like they're doing a master class in acting--and expect applause after each of their sketches. The ending where Hoffman sings is one of the most embarrassingly hokey moments I can remember on film. Most film critics act as though via this film they are witnessing some intellectual zenith. Far from it. Most of the full house viewing this film today expressed their dislike of it vociferously at its end. All the hype is sucking audiences in--BUT I predict that in ten days when word of mouth gets around, THE MASTER will float away into audience ignominy. This film is nothing more than ersatz Oscar buzz

The Master's radical political critique

The Master's languorous pace disguises, perhaps deliberately, a highly provocative political message. You can read my alternative review here. http://truth-out.org/speakout/item/11771-the-masters-radical-political-critique

Lead characters not worth your time

I heard Ms. Hornaday's comments on the Tony Kornheiser radio show and, after seeing the film today, read her full review. She was spot on about how the primary characters don't warrant this screen study, despite the interesting journey director Anderson takes filmgoers on along the way. Not sure that Amy Adams brief, quiet scenes rise to the Lady Macbeth level -- she seems not even as dominating as a caricature -- but otherwise, the Post review was all you need to know. The decision -- whether you want to spend (or waste) two-and-a-quarter hours going nowhere -- is up to you.