To be honest, I have a certain aversion towards family-centered drama because it often shares the same plot, story, and characteristics with other movies of its kind. I always think of it as a genre that is way past its prime and, as cinema evolved, it fails to adapt and catch up.
But then I saw director Matt Ross' "Captain Fantastic" and I was blown away. It follows Ben (Viggo Mortensen) and his six children who live in isolation far away from society. In this world that Ben created for his children; ideas are brought upon reading philosophical and classical books, noncommittal words are forbidden, physical training is required every day and foods are either harvested or hunted. Everything is working until one day, Ben's wife, Leslie, committed suicide, forcing him to take his children into the society he has tried to keep them away from.
Yes, "Captain Fantastic" rightfully belongs in the family drama genre but, even so, it fits differently than others because of its concept of "dysfunctional". Obviously, if taken a look individually, Ben's family has their own distinct ambition and thoughts. However, collectively, they're compelling and enthralling, as if they're one single entity, progressing together in the story.
They don't conform to norms, of course. They celebrate Noam Chomsky's birthday rather than Christmas, they "free the food" instead of buying it and they like to sleep under the stars, these are all uncommon to us but they are not really dysfunctional because whatever Ben must've had done is actually justifiable and impressive (8-year-old Zaja can recite and explain the Bill of Rights!) that one can't argue that it somehow works. How can we say that they are dysfunctional when as family, their system works for them?
This what makes "Captain Fantastic" a must watch film because it made it a point that whatever Ben has done is not an absolute right or wrong. It's intriguing and thought-provoking as it doesn't draw a line between what is correct or not, but it let us choose or pick some characteristic of both and draw our own truth. It let us experience the perspective of both and leaves spaces from discussion.
That makes this movie an effective family-centered drama because it makes me feel that what I'm watching is a real family and not just a collection of assorted characters with their own struggles to resolve. The problem in this movie is faced by the family and as a family, together.
Viggo Mortensen nuance performance deserves more than praises but also recognitions. "Captain Fantastic" sees The Lord of the Rings actor at his very best. And with Matt Ross excellent direction, this movie not just provides insight on modernity and consumerism, but also makes us feel that whatever happens -- family is there.
4.5/5
