Midnight Special
Starring Michael Shannon, Jaeden Lieberher, Kirsten Dunst, Adam Driver
Directed by Jeff Nichols
Jeff Nichols does not pander. With four films under his belt, the American writer-director has solidified his place as a truly gifted filmmaker in contemporary cinema who isn’t afraid to challenge the viewer. The sci-fi thriller Midnight Special continues this refreshing trend of making audiences active participants in movies rather than spoon-feeding them endless exposition.
Michael Shannon (star of Nichols’ previous films Shotgun Stories and Take Shelter) plays a father on the lam from law enforcement because his son Alton (Lieberher) possesses strange powers and the FBI naturally thinks the boy must be some kind of weapon. Joel Edgerton is also along for the ride as a trusted family friend, Kirsten Dunst brings some maternal affection as Alton’s mother, and Adam Driver portrays a bookish NSA analyst who seeks to unlock the secrets surrounding the child’s mysterious ways. In addition to the already strong performances, veteran Sam Shepard offers a small but effective role as the leader of a religious group also chasing Alton.
The movie opens in the middle of the plot and by the closing credits it hasn’t answered all of its questions nor divulged too much backstory. This will frustrate some but is also a testament to the power of Nichols’ storytelling; he makes you work for it. On the surface, Midnight Special is a slowburn sci-fi homage featuring stellar production design and a thought-provoking screenplay. Yet, under the surface, the film is a brilliant parable about the insecurities of being a parent that proves ultimately satisfying.
