Captain Fantastic

Any film that fully immerses the viewer in the twists and turns of the journey taking place is one that is well worth a watch. Captain Fantastic does exactly that. This original and well-crafted feature will have audiences hysterically laughing at one moment, then shedding an emotional tear in quick succession. The story of this quirky and unique family not only evokes all kinds of emotions, but will also get people thinking about the ways of modern life and family relationships.

When Ben Cash (Viggo Mortensen) and his six offspring are first introduced, they are living a nomadic life in the forests of the Pacific Northwest. Ben is raising and educating his children alone, due to his wife undergoing treatment for bipolar disorder. When the family learns that the matriarch has committed suicide, the father takes everyone on a road trip to New Mexico, after a decade of isolation, to attend her funeral. Bringing the children into modern civilisation, facing an aggressive father-in-law who wants Ben arrested and diving into “Mission: Rescue Mom” from her dreaded Christian burial provides an entertaining and moving plot line. It is difficult not to become fully engrossed with each of the unique Cash family members and their bizarre, yet poignant journey across the United States.

Featuring impressive performances from Mortensen and young actors George MacKay, Samantha Isler and Annalise Basso, the film is both heart-wrenching and highly amusing. And the talent does not stop with the cast: the scenery is stunningly shot and the script expressively written. All of this combines to create an incredibly satisfying watch.

Captain Fantastic often encourages reflection on certain lifestyle choices and question whether modern society is the best environment for bringing up a child. Philosophical elements aside, the film is a truly beautiful depiction of an endearing, dysfunctional family as they attempt to pull through difficult times. With an incredibly warm reception since its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, Captain Fantastic is likely to become one of 2016’s best-loved and most relatable movies.

Laura Ewing

Captain Fantastic is released nationwide on 9^th September 2016.

Watch the trailer for Captain Fantastic here: