Review: The Fabelmans

Loosely based on Spielberg's childhood growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, from age seven to eighteen, a young man named Sammy Fabelman discovers a shattering family secret, and explores how the power of movies help us see the truth about each other and ourselves.

Gabriel LaBelle, Paul Dano, Michelle Williams, Judd Hirsch, Julia Butters and Seth Rogen 

After the Toronto film festival, the excitement for The Fabelmans grew and grew, with prospect for some of the best performances of the year. As I sat in my seat and the movie began, I was transported into a film that was so magical, beautiful, emotional and surprising hilarious. I was enthralled for the entire runtime, paying attention to every detail, all the subtle notes of filmmaking and the subtext behind every frame. The runtime, while long, went by in a flash. Consistently engaging and exciting. 

This is ‘The Fabelmans’  but truly was a story about a kid wanting to be a filmmaker and trying to make it through his life, something I related to a lot. The acting was outstanding from the entire cast, especially Gabriel LaBelle who surprised me greatly, as I wasn’t too familiar with his work. Paul Dano, who takes another win this year, delivers another perfectly balanced performance between sadness and happiness. Michelle Williams blew me out of the water, giving one of the most electrifying performances in the movie with a tight grip around the screen whenever she was present. Alwyas curious and worried at what she would do next. Seth Rogen was a pleasant surprise, showing more of his dramatist range, moving past his comedic ability. Julia Butters has been making her way through the scene especially this year with ‘The Grey Man’, along with her outstanding breakout performance in ‘Once Upon a Time In Hollywood’ that surprised many. And as she is, she was delightful here too. 

The directing, by the iconic Steven Speilberg, is what we would expect from him. Crafting nothing short of perfection with every move of the camera, every frame that he holds onto. Complimented brilliantly by the writing by Tony Kushner and Spielberg. Immediately with every scene, proving to be one of the best written movies of the year. The score, by the great John Williams, composes another fantastic score, elevating it’s beautiful tones throughout. Along with as one would expect, gorgeous cinematography that complements the entire narratively wonderfully. 

The Fabelmans will touch all the hearts of those who actively seek to achieve their wildest dreams. Particularly if they have a love for film, which resonated with me. Further developing my love for films even more. Easy to appreciate all the aspects of filmmaking, from its opening shot to its last. It’s one of the best of the year & one I intend to revisit in the future.