From Broadway to film, Doubt is a film that delivered a wonderful adaptation to the big screen. At first glance, Doubt really doesn’t appear to be a movie which may garner a lot of interest from movie goers and .. as usual.. the movie going public is going to miss a real gem in this 2009 Drama.
The Scoop
Set in 1964, Doubt centers on a nun who confronts a priest after suspecting him abusing a black student. He denies the charges, and much of the play’s quick-fire dialogue tackles themes of religion, morality and authority.
The Truth
From successful Broadway play to film, Doubt is a dark Drama, about a sensitive subject we don’t like to discuss.
Philip Seymour Hoffman plays the role of Father Brendan Flynn , who we never really get a good image of, and we continue to question till the very end. Meryl Streep plays Sister Aloysius Beauvier, who we get to know and dislike, from the beginning, because she frightens us. There’s something scary about older ladies, who’s names start with “Sister”, and Maryl Streep reminds us perfectly.
Perhaps its because I spent time in a very strict school, with very mean principals and headmasters, but the film hit home with me.
Doubt brings us along a story about the battle betwen Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Amy Adams. Are their suspicions justified? Is Father Brendan Flynn a possible pedophile? Who’s side do you take if the mother of the child in question doesn’t seem to care and loves everything Father Flynn has become to the child?
I’m not a smart man, not very analytical, nor do I need thought provoking movies to stir my interest. If a movie like Doubt can impress me, as it did, then I can only imagine what it would do for the people who really do require a deeper plot in order to be entertained.
What’s good about Doubt?
Philip Seymour Hoffman and Meryl Streep. When the office door closes and the truth is trying to be uncovered, you get lost in the story… in the moment, and I rarely ever get caught up into plots like this.
I also found myself getting caught up in Amy Adams’ character, and the innocence she brought into the role of Sister James. She was so believable, so nervous..when trying to express her concerns over Father Flynn. You know she just was looking for any reason to believe him, and she really brought this character to life.
What’s bad about it Doubt?
Nothing, unless you need more than a good story to entertain your senses. If this is the case, you probably won’t like the film.
You’ll Like Doubt If
If you crave a good story, rather than retarded explosions and corny fighting scenes, to carry you through a movie.
The Verdict
Philip Seymour Hoffman , Meryl Streep and Amy Adams have delivered a wonderful film, with incredible performances that I really enjoyed. This film isn’t for everyone, its not very fast, there’s no action, its just a story.. and one that I enjoyed fully from start to finish.
I think you’ll love Doubt, and the brilliant performances you’ll find from everyone involved.
Tags: Amy Adams, Best of 2009, Drama 2009, January 2009, Meryl Streep, Mystery 2009, Philip Seymour Hoffman