The Master

Writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson returns with another riveting character study and exploration of the human soul. A psychologically damaged war veteran finds stability and guidance with a charismatic leader of a cult and his family. Anderson continues where he left off with his masterpiece "There Will Be Blood" to deliver another original film that's all his own and places him among the best. Where in the previous he explored power and greed, Anderson explores the benefits and dangers of organized religion. While it hints at Scientology, it goes beyond cult into the bigger picture. Joaquin Phoenix returns with a tour-de-force performance that's easily his best to date. The stellar supporting cast includes Philip Seymour Hoffman and Amy Adams with equally riveting performances. The film shot in glorious 70mm features pitch perfect production design and art direction along with another haunting score by Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood which top notch like every department of this impressive film. 1001 Films' coverage of current releases.