ROOM

After five-year-old Jack and his mother escape from the enclosed surroundings that Jack has known his entire life, the boy makes a thrilling discovery. —IMDB

Absolutely riveting in a very gentle, non-sensationalist way. Jacob Tremblay, who plays Jack, is only 10 years old and is absolutely brilliant in his role in a beautiful natural performance. Brie Larson (21 Jump Street) is also perfect as Jack’s mother. The minimal soundtrack means that we are immersed in the story without distraction and Lenny Abrahamson, the director, has done an excellent job in conveying the claustrophobic nature of Room and the fear of freedom within the short time of a movie making us feel the emotions of the characters. ROOM is a profound exploration of the challenges of parenting, the relationship between mother and child, social expectations that undermine parents, the formation and modification of world view, acceptance, freedom — so much to think about. Don’t miss this harrowing, completely believable,  rewarding movie when it is released on January 28.