Doubt

Amidst a big holiday crowd, the Rave Review hit the Angelika Theater today to view a much anticipated film – Doubt. Directed by John Patrick Shanley, Doubt tells the story of a Roman Catholic nun (played brilliantly by Meryl Streep) who confronts the pastor (the villainous Phillip Seymour Hoffman) and alleges indiscretions with a student.

If you grew up a Roman Catholic during the 1960’s, you will recognize many familiar personalities of the time in the fictitious St. Nicholaus’ clergy. It was a time when teachers in the Catholic school were relentless in the pursuit of education and manners through fear. Streep’s character Sister Aloysius was a tough disciplinarian with a heart. She was willing to challenge the hierarchy of the Church to save a young boy, and treaded in dangerous waters when she confronted the pastor.

The film is very well done and although 2 hours long, moves quickly. We observed a frequent (over)use of dramatic elements; massive wind gusts, light bulbs burning out, and heart stopping thunder claps that were probably intended to enforce the presence of the Holy Spirit. Though this battle was very much an earthly, human one.

As with all great films we have seen at the Angelika, Doubt left us with a lot to think about. There was no pretty bow to tie up this package.

We rate this film a 4 out of 5.