Captain Fantastic
{5/5} “The absurdity of being eulogized by someone she didn’t know has exactly the kind of comedic flourish that Leslie would have cherished.”
Captain Fantastic, released in 2016
Ben and his six kids live in the wilderness. He’s home schooling them, giving them assignments that are intellectually and physically challenging. When Ben’s wife, who’s bipolar, commits suicide in the hospital they decide to go to the funeral — despite his father-in-law’s warning to stay away.
It’s about dealing with a huge loss in your life, and dealing with people who live in a very different world than you. It’s about honouring someone’s wishes, and honouring your own values.
At times funny, serious, and astonishing, it’s different from anything else you’ve seen this year.
Viggo Mortensen is amazing, as always, and they found a superb group of young actors to surround him with.
Stars Frank Langella and Ann Dowd. Directed by Matt Ross (28 Hotel Rooms). The gentle music is by Alex Somers.