TIFF 2013: Joe – Movie Review

Director: David Gordon Green
Writer: Gary Hawkins (screenplay), Larry Brown (book)
Actors: Nicolas Cage, Tye Sheridan
Runtime: 117 min
Rating: 14A

Many great actors have a gift for choosing the perfect movies; if one of said actors appears in a film, one just knows that it will be good. Although highly talented, actor Nicolas Cage does not appear to possess this ability, since many of his films in recent memory have been critical disasters. However, his new film Joe, directed by David Gordon Green, marks a definite change. It is refreshing and enjoyable to watch this skilled actor performing a well-crafted role to the utmost of his ability and in a very good movie.

Joe (Nicolas Cage) is the good-hearted ex convict at the centre of this film based on Larry Brown’s novel of the same name. Joe works as an overseer for a lumber company, leading similarly tough men in gruelling physical labour. Treating his men with dignity and respect, Joe has earned himself a reputation as a kind and fair employer. When young Gary (Tye Sheridan) moves to town and comes to him looking for a job, Joe immediately realizes the hardships Gary is facing at home with an abusive alcoholic father, and takes him under his wing. A relationship begins to form between these two individuals who, in the midst of their poverty, must do whatever it takes to survive. Eventually, Gary begins to see in Joe the father figure that he has been lacking all of his life. However, Joe has hidden problems of his own, and may not be an ideal role model for this highly impressionable young man.

Joe

Tye Sheridan shows much promise in his role as Gary, immediately endearing himself to an audience who cannot help but feel pity towards this eager and hard-working young boy. Sheridan skilfully shows the way in which Gary actually loves his father, making his systematic abuse all the more horrifying. Fresh off of his role in this year’s acclaimed film Mud, Sheridan is definitely a rising young star to watch. The seasoned Nicolas Cage also presents a tough and complex character that is likeable nonetheless. Joe may have a rough exterior, but reveals a heart of gold as he interacts with his employees and with Gary, in whom he sees a young version of himself. The similarities between the difficult lives of these two individuals are highlighted, as the scenes shift from one to the other, so that they appear connected even before they meet.

Director David Gordon Green takes his time setting up his story, telling it slowly with patience and care. He crafts a dark and moody atmosphere appropriate to a film that deals with dark and moody individuals. Occasionally, dim lighting and odd music are used to reflect Joe’s often drunken state, allowing an audience to experience events along with this character. Although many of the characters may have brutal pasts, Green’s film remains almost gentle throughout, treating each individual with the respect that they deserve but have no hope of receiving.

Joe

The film Joe demonstrates the power that one individual can have on the life of another, as well as the devastating effects of alcoholism. Featuring nuanced performances from both of its lead actors, Joe draws one into its story, causing an audience to actually care about its outcome. It is a real treat to watch Nicolas Cage perform in a good movie after his prolific career, and equally as exciting to watch the beginning of what promises to be an illustrious profession for young Tye Sheridan.

Photo Credits: Toronto International Film Festival