100 Movie Challenge 2016 - # 66: Midnight Special

Director: Jeff Nichols
Genre: Science Fiction/ Thriller/ Drama
Runtime: 112 minutes
Year: 2016
Starring: Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst, Jaeden Leberher, Sam Shepard, Adam Driver, Bill Camp

Description: A father and son (Michael Shannon, Jaeden Leberher) go on the run, pursued by the government and a cult drawn to the child's special powers.

Review: Director Jeff Nichols has proven to be very promising. Look at “Mud” and “Take Shelter”. “Midnight Special” is very different from his previous films. It’s really hard to put “Midnight Special” in one genre. It’s a paranormal, science fiction, thriller, drama.
The movie follows the eight year old Alton. Alton is a member of a religious cult and raised by its leader. The boy has a special power, but isn’t benefiting from this ‘gift’. Alton also receives messages that tell him he should go to a swamp in Texas. His father Roy and Roy’s friend Lucas believe him and take Alton to that place. But the FBI is right behind them. What happens next is a cat and mouse game between the three, the cult and the FBI.
The story is not as clear, neither is the direction Nichols is heading. But there is still enough to enjoy. The cinematography is great. And so is the cast. Michael Shannon is very strong in his role as determined father.
The movie is captivating from beginning till end, but you can see the film is a bit adrift. You never really know what is going on exactly.

Rating: 3,5/ 5