First Reformed (2018)

First Reformed (2018) A24 Films

I've been meaning to see First Reformed since it opened. Upon finding out tonight was the end of its run here, I made it for a 9:20 show and was not disappointed. Usually I wait a day or two to write about a movie, but this one has burrowed deep into my brain, and I figure rather than lie awake thinking about it until 3 am, I'd just get my thoughts down now.

All the raves I have heard were true. Ethan Hawke gave the performance of his career. Paul Schrader's script is an original, brutally honest tale of how the church is just another business to many, and how easily faith can be lost in the systems in which we find ourselves.

I was reminded of Affliction, an earlier film by Schrader, not in substance, but in style. The slow pace showing not only the mundane life of Hawke's Reverend Toller, but also his inner struggles. The slow pace as we see Rev. Toller drifting from his faith only adds to the suspense. A slow boiler is what I'd call this.

My mom was raised as a Catholic, but didn't raise my siblings and I in the church. Heck, we're baptized but never made 1st Communion and none of us have any regrets. I think if I had a more religious background, this movie might have resonated with me in a different way. 2 people walked out of the theater about three-quarters of the way though. Not sure why, but I was glad they did since one of them was reading on their Kindle app most of the movie. Sigh. Another woman got up the minute the movie ended and exclaimed "That's it? She had come in about 15 minutes after the film started, and was chomping apples the whole time. If you enjoy formulaic, run of the mill movies, might I suggest seeing something at the mall? Ok, that was a low blow, I admit. Mall Multiplex, I didn't mean it. I know you try.

This film takes some turns you might not expect (I sure didn't), and won't be quickly forgotten. Especially the ending. Look for it when it hits the streams.