Manchester by the Sea (2016)

Manchester by the Sea

• This is my official 700th all time movie review, and I certainly picked a depressing one to watch. My advice is this: don’t watch this late at night like I did, because it really gets your mind going on things that you shouldn’t be thinking about before bed. I feel so impacted after seeing this, and though I can’t relate to all of the events, some of the characters (especially Lee) feel extremely relatable. Even if you can’t relate to any of it, it still hits you right in the gut. It’s so brilliantly written, in both a tragic way, but also in a touching way. The movie ends on a glimmer of hope, which is helpful after sitting through all the events in the movie. Personally, I like movies like this that drag you down, because you really get to thinking about the important things in life. The raw emotion you get from Casey Affleck was just….I can’t even describe it. Something I haven’t felt before from a character in a long, long time. I can see pieces of myself in him. His Oscar win is well deserved. Regarding the story, I won’t say anything about it (for spoilers), asides that it’s written fantastically (as I said). The flashbacks show you the happiness, the present shows you the sadness, and together, and a beautiful duet of humanity and pure feelings. That sounds really deep, and that’s because the movie is that deep. Man, I could go on about this for another hour, but I want you to see this for yourself. Just make a cup of tea and sit back, with no distractions. Experience Lee’s journey, and put yourself in his shoes. It clobbers you hard, but it’s worth it. Everyone should see this at some point in your life. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!