Rated R
2 hour 15 minutes

Staring: Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Joaquin Phoenix

It only stands to reason that Phillip Seymour Hoffman, one of America’s most charismatic actors, should play “The Master”, based on a most fascinating cult figure.

The acting is everything in this challenging drama about “The Master” who takes pity on, and helps mixed up Joaquin Phoenix find a meaningful life. “The Master” is one of those complicated psychological studies that require your complete attention to even approach being deeply satisfying.

Hoffman and Phoenix dominate the screen as master and protégé.

If you’ve got the patience for this style of moviemaking, you’re in a rare treat. If not, “The Master” can be heavy going much of the way.

Hoffman and Phoenix don’t do all the heavy lifting by themselves. Amy Adams gives a striking performance as Hoffman’s ultra-supportive spouse, helping peddle Hoffman’s self-improvement Snake oil.

As you can guess, “The Master” is not for everyone. Nor was it meant to be. “The Master” is complex, an often fascinating piece of work. Good, but not great with 3 stars.

See it for no other reason than the marvelous acting.