Manchester by the Sea

“Manchester by the Sea” was written and directed by Kenneth Lonergan and stars Casey Affleck, Michelle Williams, Kyle Chandler and newcomer Lucas Hedges. This is a story of sadness and a series of ill-fated events that befall Mr.Affleck’s character, Lee Chandler, who is asked to become the guardian of his young nephew upon the sudden death of Lee’s brother Joe. ‘The performances in this film are noteworthy because they are understated yet immensely powerful as each actor communicates great degrees of emotion without overburdening the scenes with wordy laments. Kudos to the young Mr. Hedges who plays Lee’s nephew as he and his uncle Lee attempt to develop a relationship despite different lifestyles and aspirations. I give the film 3 and ½ stars with a special spotlight on Mr. Affleck whose Oscar nomination seems virtually guaranteed.