"The Master" is a film where a very messed up man, Freddie (Joaquin Phoenix), drifts through life after serving in WWII. He accidentally falls in with a very strange and charismatic man (Philip Seymour Hoffman)--a man who ultimately changes his life. Using a variety of brainwashing and hypnotic techniques (similar to the auditing done in Scientology), he manages to get very close to the Master--and becomes a very devoted disciple.
"The Master" is a film that the Academy loved (with three acting nominations), as did the professional film reviewers. However, the public stayed away and the film, at least according to IMDb estimates, was a total financial bust. And, after seeing the film, I could see why folks didn't go to see the film. Part of it surely was the subject matter--most people aren't particularly interested in a story about an L. Ron Hubbard-like guru leading a cult. Part of it is that the film isn't exactly family-friendly--with some VERY crude scenes (particularly at the beginning but they are sprinkled throughout). Most of it, however, is that the film is VERY, VERY slow, seemingly directionless and dull. In essence, the film had no idea WHAT it was saying about Scientology or anything for that matter and when it counted, the film constantly pulled its punches. Sure, the acting is nice, but I had a heck of a time sticking with this one. rather unpleasant film. And, while I normally love a longer film, in this case it was not an asset.
It was interesting that Phoenix chose to do this film. I assume it might have to do with him growing up in a an organization often seen as a cult. Perhaps it was his way of dealing with this part of his past.
