Cast
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Oscar Isaac
as Abel Morales
Jessica Chastain
as Anna Morales
David Oyelowo
as D.A. Lawrence
Alessandro Nivola
as Peter Forente
Elyes Gabel
as Julian
Albert Brooks
as Andrew Walsh
Catalina Sandino Moreno
as Luisa
Peter Gerety
as Bill O'Leary
Christopher Abbott
as Louis Servidio
Glenn Fleshler
as Arnold Kline
David Margulies
as Saul Lefkowitz
Jerry Adler
as Joseph Mendelsohn
Ben Rosenfield
as Sales Student Alex
John Procaccino
as Arthur Lewis
Ashley Williams
as Deputy Lange
Crew
Director
- J.C. Chandor
Writer
- J.C. Chandor
Producer
- Neal Dodson
- Anna Gerb
- J.C. Chandor
Reviews
Nathan
_A Most Violent Year_ took a long time to get me hooked, but once I was able to come around to it I was fully invested. Oscar Isaac is fantastic in this movie. He was able to balance the intimidating front of a mobster while being able to present a sense of honesty as he was trying to avoid the more barbaric business practice of his contemporaries. It was a fine line, but it was a joy to see the mobster slowly start to take over as his desperation increased. Jessica Chastain was really good as well. She was a balancing force for Isaac's character and was just as badass in my opinion. They had amazing chemistry and formed a dynamic duo that was a force to be reckoned with. There is not a lot of action in this film, but the tension was thick and when there were more chaotic sequences they felt organic and real. The cinematography was top notch, I love the haze that was in this movie. It was nice touch and made the movie feel right at home in the 80's. This movie is not going to be for everyone, but I really dug it and recommend anyone to check it out.
**Score:** _83%_ |
**Verdict:** _Great_
Nov 25, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Most Violent Year examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director J.C. Chandor brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Most Violent Year took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 315 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Most Violent Year shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Replacement, which focuses more on action than character development, A Most Violent Year offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Hot Young Bloods and Die Hard: With a Vengeance explore similar territory, A Most Violent Year stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 31, 2014
- Runtime: 2h 4m
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Revenue: $12,007,070
