Midnight Special
Director: Jeff Nichols
Talent: Michael Shannon, Kirsten Dunst, Adam Driver, Jaeden Lieberher
Release Date: April 8th 2016
Jeff Nichols takes a turn for the supernatural in Midnight Special, a sci-fi drama about a young boy, Alton (Lieberher), whose eyes and ears seem to be hypersensitive receivers for radio and satellite signals, as well as perhaps more otherworldly communications. Alton has been the idol of a compound-dwelling cult for years, documenting his recitations of codes and number sequences he plucks from the air, but is escaped by his father Roy (Shannon) and we find them on the run from federal and local authorities in a seemingly doomed chase as the film begins.
Unfortunately, as the narrative plays out, explaining itself, what makes the film vital and engaging is increasingly diminished. Midnight Special’s mysteries are fascinating, but Nichols’ explanations for them are half-baked, and his aesthetic weaknesses as a director are brought into full view, in sharp contrast with his skills in affecting mood and directing actors. A half great fourth feature from a nonetheless unique voice.
Words: Oisín Murphy-Hall
