Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close [2011]

It grows tiresome after a while and little Oskar Schell (Thomas Horn) can really get on one’s nerves, but Stephen Daldry’s Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, based on Jonathan Safran Foer’s novel does not feel exploitative, gimmicky or manipulative, as some of its detractors may lead you to believe. The emotions and the fears feel real. There are a few minor plot inconsistencies but what this movie lacks in congruence, it makes up for with fantastic acting. Thomas Horn is a revelation, full of raw talent and an innocence that’s refreshing. As his mother, Sandra Bullock is absolutely heartbreaking, a subtle performance that’s even better than her Oscar-winning turn in The Blind Side. Viola Davis in her banner year and Max Von Sydow in a completely silent performance are expectedly solid.

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