MIDNIGHT SPECIAL (2016)

Genre: Science Fiction / Thriller / Drama
Running Length: 1:40
Cast: Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton, Jaeden Lieberher, Kirsten Dunst, Adam Driver, Sam Shepard
Director: Jeff Nichols
Screenplay: Jeff Nichols

MIDNIGHT SPECIAL is a frustrating watch. It's a character driven low budget small film. The premise of the story is familiar; how would ordinary people of the world react if someone with special powers is placed among them. It reminds me of M Night Shyamalan's Unbreakable but the payout in the end doesn't justify the "what's going on" slow-burn built up. In fact, it implodes as it crosses the finishing line when the big reveal is made known.

I get it. It's not about the destination but the journey. It's about a study on "what would a father do to protect his loved one". I get it. But still, the story of getting there gets less interesting as it unfolds. Also, the audience is left with more questions than answers when the credits rolled.

The story is about a father and his young son (who possesses special powers) who is on the run from those who would want to take advantage of the boy's gifts. We are talking about the military and the Ranch, an ajaran sesat sect where the boy grew up.

The cast puts on a credible performance but it's disappointing how this movie falls apart towards the end after starting so remarkably.

Rating: 4.5/10