SPOTLIGHT (2015)

12/8/2015 - Spotlight - 8/10

Such a strong and important film. It is a slow burn that ramps up over the course of the film, relying on the sympathetic weight of these hidden horrors to provide the dramatic intensity and vitality, not external threats that are so often relied upon.

Well managed by the cinematographer, to expertly focus each shot and provide such a strict essentialness/minimalism that is so often in his camera's gaze (as he has done before in Warrior and The Grey). Also, a terrific editing job, keeping the flow solid, continuous, and at the perfect building pace. McCarthy's style is pretty no-frills, but he has chosen the best story, design, and talent to execute this marvelously.

Top-notch job identifying/highlighting this whirlwind of a story, while each principle actor is given unique and important screen time to deliver wonderful individual performances and perspectives.

Best procedural in a long while. Smart. Astutely designed and delivered, with immense talent and an ideal spirit of import.