“Captain Fantastic” begins with a gorgeous opening shot that pans a dense forest canopy. It’s followed by an equally beautiful shot on the forest floor gazing up at the tree tops. The soothing quiet is only interrupted by the hypnotic sounds of nature. The sequence highlights the natural beauty but also the remoteness of the setting. It doesn’t take long for us to learn why this is important.
Actor Matt Ross wrote and directed this movie that on the surface resembles a left-wing fairytale. Viggo Mortensen plays a father named Ben who lives in isolation deep in the forest with his six children. They live off the land (as much as possible), have impromptu Woodstock-esque campfire jams, and frequently discuss the merits of Marxism, Trotskyism, humanism, anti-capitalism and a hodgepodge of other left-leaning isms. They even celebrate Noam Chomsky Day, for goodness sake!
But there is so much more beyond that surface-level first impression. Ross’s story digs deeper into these characters unfolding a plethora of complexities, inner-conflicts, and motivations. After several unforeseen turns we not only see these characters in a new light, but the entire movie itself becomes something completely unexpected. It becomes a movie not interested in politics, but in what makes these characters tick.
This film truly works better the less you know. I will say Ben and his kids aren’t without some contact with the outside world. Sometimes they hop into their bus/motor home (affectionately named Steve) and hit a small market for supplies. They check their post office box and Ben makes one or two necessary calls before heading back into the wilderness. But one day he gets some troubling news which sets the direction for the remainder of the movie.
What follows is a weird but enthralling concoction that features genre slices from American road trip movies to pitch black comedies. And while there is a small ‘liberal versus conservative’ narrative and their are some interesting social observations, this isn’t a political film. It’s incredibly open and fair in its characterizations. That’s because it is interested in something much deeper and more provocative. The discussions Ross wants us to have are beyond socialism vs. capitalism. He challenges us to look deeper into ourselves.
For all this film does well Mortensen is the biggest highlight. In a nomination-worthy performance he takes this peculiar, off-beat character and depicts him with such bruising authenticity. He is the centerpiece and one of the film’s most compelling questions is whether or not Ben is a good father. At times the answer seems obvious while other times we can’t help but wonder. Yet we never doubt his love for his children. Mortensen is essential to selling this character. His performance is far from flashy. It’s subtle, completely unselfish, and works well with the really talented young cast.
Matt Ross’s story of this off-the-grid family clashing with the outside world naturally has its funny moments. But it’s also a film filled with genuine feeling. Ultimately “Captain Fantastic” is about the willingness to listen and be open. It speaks against separating ourselves and speaks to the idea of balance, both in our convictions and in our willingness to learn from others. It speaks to balance in our relationships with others and with the world around us. It’s a meaningful message wrapped up in a superb film guaranteed to be unlike anything else you’ll see this year.
VERDICT – 4.5 STARS
keithandthemovies.com 
I got this DVD from Netflix and I’ll probably watch it tomorrow. I’m looking forward to it, I’m sure I’ll like it as much as you did.
It’s a bit wacky but pretty heartwarming it its own weird way. I was really surprised by it. Look forward to hearing your thoughts on it. Let me know what you think!
Great review, and I’m completely in agreement. I really feel this movie was overlooked by many and I think some of it might have been down to the assumption that this was just another quirky family drama about quirky people doing quirky things in an adorably quirky way. And it really isn’t. It’s so meaningful and genuinely kind with all its characters. Loved it.
So true…everything you said. I too think this was tossed aside by many which is a real shame. And that Viggo performance was just superb.
Great review, I really loved this film. It really took me by surprise because it didn’t seem anything too special initially. One of the best films of the year for me!
I can see why you hold it in high regards. It kinda surprised me too. I bought into it completely, even its offbeat sense of humor.
Nice review, Keith. I’ve only heard positive reviews for this. I never tire of Viggo. I’m going to rent it this week and watch it.
AWESOME! I’d really be interested in your take on it. It is strikingly unique in its humor and style. And as for Viggo, he was fantastic. You won’t be disappointed.
I’m sure I won’t. Hopefully tonight. 🙂
Great review Keith! I finally saw this myself last night and was kinda blown away by it. It wasn’t the movie I was expecting at all, really tugged on the ol’ heart strings 🙂
– Allie
Exactly! It does defy expectations. I rewatched it so my wife could see it and she really liked it as well.
Excellent writing, Keith! It’s only a matter of time until I see this one; Viggo Mortensen is one of my favorites.
In that case you definitely need to see this. This is Viggo in top form. It’s such a smart movie and it ends up in a much different place than you expect. Highly recommend it.
The more I read about Captain Fantastic the more I get the impression of a Wes Anderson film. You’ve seen it, would you say that’s a fair assessment?
Hmm, honestly I don’t really see it as a Wes Anderson movie. In the first act you can get some of those vibes, but overall it is far less quirky and doesn’t have any of the visual style and presentation that every Anderson flick has. I’ve said this elsewhere, but Captain Fantastic ends up in such a different (and frankly surprising) place than it starts.
All the more reason to become invested in this. Can’t wait for my turn. (Because that’s how I’m increasingly perceiving things in this blogosphere. We all get our “turns”. )
LOL! Good perspective. I’m anxious for you to get your turn. I may be wrong but I think you will really go for this one too.
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