I have a soft spot for ensemble cast movies. While there is always something thrilling about an actor giving a tour de force performance that gets all the Oscar buzz, a true ensemble cast movie is a rare and quieter delight. When every performance is in harmony it is captivating.
One of my recent favourites is Spotlight, the story of the Boston Globe’s investigation into the Catholic church covering up the abuse of children on a massive scale. I know the topic isn’t for everyone but this isn’t invasive or gratuitous. It shows the frustrating progress of the investigation, the impact being believed and heard had on the survivors and how it affected the reporters. It also shows horribly clearly how the abuse was allowed to continue and excused by the action of people turning a blind eye.
Watching it is not a cosy experience but it is a strangely reassuring one as you watch the pieces come together.
The performances from the cast are stunning and it all works so beautifully together. If I had to pick a favourite, I’d chose Liev Schrieber as Marty Baron the new editor-in-chief. It’s such a still quiet performance but breathtaking. Then again, I may need to watch it again to check.