Gotta Serve Somebody

Or some thing. We went to see The Master yesterday. I think it could be pared by 15 minutes and not lose its drama or suspense. This film will assuredly be nominated for Academy Awards: best picture, best actors and perhaps score.

This long, ponderous film isn't one I'd recommend to everyone. If you liked The Tree of Life, The Master is for you. Joaquin Phoenix is superb as the post-traumatic stressed former Navy man (World War II). Philip Seymor Hoffman is riveting, his character both attractive and repulsive. The relationship between him and Phoenix is a pas de deux that is well, masterful.

The Master is an expert at controlling people. His movement, a cult, promises to connect humans to their past, cure leukemia and lead happy productive lives. Basically, he is a quack. A very powerful quack. One wonders if he could even exist in today's world of instant Internet connections. Maybe he could do worse damage.

The Master eventually gives an ultimatum to his young protegee: stop drinking and join the Cause, or leave. He leaves. He'd rather serve no one but demon alcohol. I admire his choice, a free choice. Better to reign in hell than serve wherever.