Writer/Director: Derek Cianfrance
Based on the best-selling novel by M.L. Stedman
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz
‘Powerful Period Piece’
Over the last few years, Derek Cianfrance has made a name for himself as one of Hollywood’s finest directors. Although he has only made three films to date, each is unique and unforgettable in its own way. Known for his distinct visual style and ability to get amazing performances from actors, Cianfrance has put himself on the map as a director to watch out for.
His latest film, “The Light Between Oceans” is a deeply moving love story that packs an emotional punch. A beautifully shot period piece that tugs at the heartstrings, it proves why Cianfrance is one of the most talented directors working today. Although it is not easy to adapt a beloved novel to the big-screen, Cianfrance has crafted a visually breathtaking epic that showcases two of the most unforgettable performances of the year. Despite an unnecessarily long running time, “The Light Between Oceans” is the kind of old-fashioned film that Hollywood rarely makes anymore.
Based on the best-selling novel by M.L. Stedman, “The Light Between Oceans” tells the story of how a couple’s life is destroyed by a single decision. Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander star in the leading roles as Tom and Isabel, a newlywed couple who live on an isolated island. They long to have a baby, but when Isabel suffers miscarriages, it becomes unlikely that this will happen. All hope is lost until a baby washes onshore in a rowboat. The couple is then faced with a difficult decision: should they raise the baby as their own or return it to its family?
This is the moral dilemma at the center of “The Light Between Oceans”, a film that takes you on an emotional roller-coaster. Be sure to bring along a box of tissues, because Derek Cianfrance has made one of the most heartbreaking films of the year. Although he is mostly known for making small and intimate films, “The Light Between Oceans” is his most ambitious yet. It is the first time that the director has adapted a novel to the big-screen, which is a huge responsibility. Not only does the film have to stay faithful towards the novel, but it needs to make sense for those who have not read it. Through gorgeous visuals, powerful performances and a timeless message, Derek Cianfrance has successfully translated a beloved novel into a beautiful film.
Visually, “The Light Between Oceans” is one of the most gorgeous films you’ll see this year. If you’ve seen Derek Cianfrance’s previous films, you may have noticed that they are nice to look at. Yet, none have been as visually stunning as “The Light Between Oceans”. Shot on location, the film is filled with breathtaking landscapes, beautiful scenery and shots of the sun rising that transport you to another time and place. “The Light Between Oceans” is one of those films that demands to be seen on the big-screen, if for no other reason but to gape in awe at the visuals.
Prepare to be blown away not only by the visuals, but the extraordinary performances given by two of Hollywood’s most talented actors. If there’s one thing that Derek Cianfrance has always been an expert at, it’s getting the best out of his actors. “The Light Between Oceans” features award-worthy turns from Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander who fully immerse themselves in their roles.
Michael Fassbender delivers a terrific performance as a man torn between doing the right thing and doing what’s best for his family. Although Fassbender is known for playing dark and disturbed characters from a slave owner to Steve Jobs, his latest performance may be his most heartfelt to date. With a commanding presence and emotional expressions, he portrays a man who struggles to deal with a moral dilemma. Although it may be too early in the year to predict, it’s a performance that may finally earn him a long overdue Oscar.
Going toe to toe with Fassbender is Alicia Vikander, who is heartbreaking in the role of a woman that simply wants to have a child. Fresh off her Oscar win for “The Danish Girl”, Vikander is turning out to be one of the most talented and seasoned actresses around. She has the ability to portray a wide range of emotions- from happiness to grief- without saying a single word. It’s a raw, emotionally naked performance that shows that Vikander is not afraid of tackling roles that most actresses shy away from.
It’s the electric chemistry between these actors that holds “The Light Between Oceans” together, even when it runs a little longer than necessary. Like Derek Cianfrance’s previous films, it is a slow-paced film that takes time to get going. The first hour is mostly spent on the love story between Tom and Isabel, and it isn’t until the second half that the film gains momentum. Although this does not detract from the viewing experience, one can’t help but feel that the film didn’t need to be so lengthy. Unlike “The Place Beyond the Pines”, which needed to be long due to its epic scope, this is a film that overstays its welcome.
Nevertheless, those who have enough patience to sit through “The Light Between Oceans” will be rewarded with an uplifting message.
Although it’s not for the faint of heart, this is a deeply emotional film that stays with you long after you leave the theater.
3.5/5 stars
The Film Buff 
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