THE CHILDHOOD OF A LEADER

The theatre I saw this in (two people in entire auditorium) did the right thing. They showed this movie LOUD. The only other movie I can recall where the projectionist had cranked up the volume during a screening was at a film festival screening of TWELVE YEARS A SLAVE and that loud painful music was incredibly effective. The music in CHILDHOOD is overwhelming: literally, a big chunk of the movie is really the musical performance, with the visuals just there for the ride. Not that I minded a bit. Wow what a movie. It isn't perfect, it has flaws. As many a critic has been delighted to point out, no doubt enjoying chiding the young whippersnanpper first-time director for having the gall to make such a bold film. Bold, indeed. And the timing could not be better, given Trump. See it. HEAR it.

SCORE: 91.