The Impossible (Jo*****)

There has been no more moving film this year than The Impossible, a true story about one family whose idyllic vacation is transformed into a week of tragedy and unimaginable horror amidst the 2004 tsunami. Yes, this is dark material and the film does not shy away from the bitter truths of the event, but here is a film that is an absolute joy to watch. A testament to the power of cinema and the great talent in the industry, The Impossible is easily one of the year's best. 

With very little setup, we learn about this family. Maria and Henry, two parents raising 3 sons in Japan, have picked the Asian coast to spend their Christmas holiday. The trip, though, is soon interrupted by the sudden wave that completely destroys the resort and separates the family. In one of the film's most horrifying scenes, we see Maria (played by Watts) being swept along by the waves like a rag doll, with debris and glass shards pummeling her body under water as she tries to reach her son. 

Though the family is all alive, they are separated by miles, each eventually ending up at a local hospital overrun with the victims. Maria and her son, Lucas, witness the countless people lost and injured while in the hospital - Maria falling ill due to her severe injuries from the initial wave. Henry (McGregor) has survived with his two youngest sons and stay behind in hopes to locate the rest of their family, alive or dead. 

The film is totally dependent on the cast, and here is the film's true strength. As the father, McGregor brings an unparalleled grief to his role. There is no doubt this is his best performance to date, and easily one of the best male leads of the year. There is one scene where he manages to get hold of a phone to call his family at home, and his sudden outpouring of emotion is so brutally honest and poignant, it is simply heartbreaking. Naomi Watts, one of Hollywood's most talented actresses, has truly outdone herself. Through her eyes, we see absolute terror and the dramatic weight, and her commitment to every single scene makes it hard to remember she is simply acting. Though much of her performance takes place in a hospital bed, she singlehandedly creates the film's heart. Could she be the new Best Actress frontrunner? I have no reason to doubt. And Tom Holland, the oldest son, what a breakthrough! Why this young actor hasn't received more credit for this role, I don't know. Here is a performance that is challenging both physically and emotionally, and he manages to breathlessly navigate the story. 

I have nothing but praise to give this film. I understand some of the criticisms regarding this film focusing on a white family in the midst of an Asian disaster. That makes no difference. This is a story of love, humanity, and passion. The Impossible is definitely a 'do-not-miss!'

(Awards Potential: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress (Watts), Best Actor (McGregor), Best Supporting Actor (Holland), Best Original Screenplay, Best Visual Effects, Best Makeup, Best Original Score, Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing)