“Room” is almost as good as you’ve been hearing and is an easy contender for any “Best” lists. The plot may turn people off, but I believe if they give it a chance, they’ll have one of the most moving experiences of any film this year. If you don’t know what it’s about, I would just go see it now, and then be glad you did later.
What Works: The first half of “Room” is set in a single bunker-style room where we learn a kidnapped woman named Joy (an excellent Brie Larson) has been kept for years with her young son Jack (Jacob Tremblay, just as good). Their captor is a man named “Old Nick” who is technically Jack’s father, but Joy tries to limit the contact between Jack and “Old Nick.” I don’t want to give too much away about the second half.
See? You’re probably turned off just by that description, and that’s a shame because the second half features some of the most uplifting and rousing scenes of the year. [Jack’s escape scene is impossible not to be moved by.] The performances have received rightful praise, and it would be criminal not to at least nominate Larson and Tremblay.
What Doesn’t: I really don’t want to give someone an excuse not to see this film. It truly is one of the year’s very best.
What I Would Have Done Differently: See this movie!