First Reformed

THE GIST: The pastor of a historic church with a dwindling congregation suffers from PTSD and severe depression, stemming from painful memories about his son. He's also likely harboring a growing cancer, for which he gets no treatment, and alcohol seems to be his medicine. When a pregnant parishioner reaches out to him out of concern for her radicalized husband, his troubled past and his despair for the future all collide to make him spiral out of control.

First Reformed is a drama about the struggles of the human condition when faced with events out of our control in a cynical and unforgiving world. Certainly relatable.

The story is infused with mysterious overtones that slowly reveal their truths. The screenplay was nominated for a Best Screenplay Oscar.

Ethan Hawke gives a towering performance here, flanked by Amanda Seyfried, Cedric the Entertainer, Victoria Hill, and Philip Ettinger.

THE BOTTOM LINE: While the film might feel a bit slow at times, the pace helps set the mood and increases the suspense. A solid yes for me.

Grade: 7