Brian's Review - Doubt (2008)

An excellent film, without a doubt.

Released: 2008
Genre(s): Drama, Mystery

Very rarely does a film manage to make me physically shudder in complete awe. Even rarer are the films that don't fall back on gigantic, jaw-dropping set pieces, or soaring, melancholy musical scores, or the tragic, heart-rending death of an admirable character or relationship to cause this reaction. "Doubt" manages to forego all extraneous movie gimmicks, instead focusing on what all films should emphasize: the acting. Adapted from a 2004 stage play, this movie effectively brings theatre to the screen. There are plenty of opportunities for the all-star cast to shine here, as they work with a script full of so many profound ideas and emotionally-charged confrontations that those normally not interested in dialogue-driven pictures may find some very real interest in this film, as it truly showcases some of the best head-to-head verbal standoffs I've seen in ages. All the actors do a superb job with their parts, but it is Meryl Streep in particular who is able to bring a certain electrically-charged, onscreen ferocity that seems to infect and enhance the acting of her supporting cast members. The power of her final words and mannerisms during the last thirty seconds of this movie gave me goosebumps so pronounced that it looked like I had been bathing in ice water for hours - and, in this case, this is a very, very good thing. Thematically, the mystery within "Doubt" is not only enjoyable and engrossing, but also deeply-unsettling, with enough piercing conviction to leave you wondering for days after the film ends. It's nice to see a film that doesn't get bogged down with overly-elaborate storylines, but rather allows its actors to do what they are paid to do, and in this case, they all prove they're absolute professionals. If you're willing to put the over-the-top Hollywood effects on the back burner for an evening, "Doubt" packs enough explosive acting dynamite into its duration to be worthy of at least one view for anyone who enjoys movies and at least five for anyone who appreciates the art of theatre.

Rating (out of 5): 4.5