350. Armageddon Time; movie review

 

ARMAGEDDON TIME

Cert 15

114 mins

BBFC advice: Contains strong language, racism theme, drug misuse, domestic abuse

On the plus side, Armageddon Time lovingly recreates a moment in history and raises the important subject of racial discrimination.

Unfortunately, the movie simply isn't exciting or particularly engaging.

And this was a surprise because Mrs W and I were looking forward to it after watching its trailer.

Its most compelling elements were the contributions of Anthony Hopkins but, sadly, he has precious little screen time.

Director and writer James Gray has returned to his childhood in Queens where he mirrors his struggle to be in step with his conservative Jewish family.

The narrative is seen through the eyes of a young rebel called Paul (Banks Repeta) who feels compelled to backchat his parents and his teachers.

At school, he finds a willing accomplice in an orphan (Jaylin Webb) who is even louder and more visible in his dissent.

Thus, Paul is perpetually causing consternation for his teachers, mum (Anne Hathaway) and dad (Jeremy Strong).

Indeed, the only relative who seems to be able to get through to him is his grandfather played with gentle but steely understanding by Hopkins.

Armageddon Time has a double plank with Paul and his Jewish family clearly still trying to prove themselves in the United States despite being long established in the country.

This is juxtaposed against the adults' racism towards black people.

But that's it really. The characters aren't particularly likeable, the arguments are well-worn and don't really move us forward.

I suspect that Gray has found it cathartic and good luck to him but I felt like a stranger looking into his very personal and not overly interesting story.

Reasons to watch: Anthony Hopkins is always good value

Reasons to avoid: Far too meandering

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: None

Nudity: None

Overall rating: 5/10

Did you know? Armageddon Time's Fred and Maryanne Trump scene really happened and was part of James Gray's true story.

The final word. James Gray: "I had to rediscover what moved me. I wanted to strip it all away and be honest with and about myself. So, I think it's the product of what I had been doing. I felt like I had, on purpose, tried to stretch. I don't regret that." A Frame

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