Oct. 08, 2021|United States|111 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Drama
Description: “Mass,” released in 2021, is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking film. The story unfolds in a modest meeting room within an Episcopal church located in the western United States. Two couples come together, cautiously removing their coats and engaging in quiet small talk. The atmosphere is tense, filled with unease as they take their seats. As their conversation progresses, the true purpose of their meeting becomes evident. What starts as a remarkable showcase of acting and character development gradually transforms into a profoundly moving and seismic experience.
This film marks the directorial debut of actor Fran Kranz, who approaches the subject matter with sensitivity and restraint, avoiding melodrama. The narrative centers on Gail and Jay (played by Martha Plimpton and Jason Isaacs), who meet with Linda and Richard (portrayed by Ann Dowd and Reed Birney) to discuss a school shooting that occurred six years earlier. Both couples lost their sons in the tragedy, and they grapple with denial, guilt, anger, and unresolved grief in different ways.
Kranz masterfully reveals information with care, allowing the audience to witness the distinct and often conflicting perspectives of the characters. Plimpton’s Gail is a mix of simmering rage and raw pain, contrasting sharply with Dowd’s Linda, who has made strides toward healing. Isaacs’ Jay channels his loss into activism, mirroring the pragmatic approach of Birney’s Richard.
As the confrontation unfolds in real-time, the characters’ defensive layers begin to peel away, revealing their complexities and contradictions. “Mass” captivates with its depth, driven by Kranz’s minimalist visual style and the powerful, courageous performances of its cast. The film’s emotional resonance and exploration of grief, accountability, and healing make it a truly compelling piece of cinema.
Cast director: Fran Kranz
Cast actor: Jason Isaacs, Martha Plimpton, Reed Birney, Ann Dowd, Breeda Wool, Kagen Albright, Michelle N. Carter, Campbell Spoor, Michael White
Original name: Mass