A Review of The Accountant: Ben Affleck's Stellar Performance and the Bittersweet Tale

The Accountant is a film that stands far removed from reality yet so thematically close to human experiences, leaving audiences with a mix of emotions and thoughts. This review aims to explore the movie's strengths, critiques, and the significance it holds in the realm of cinema.

Unforgettable Performance by Ben Affleck

I recently watched The Accountant with no prior knowledge of the plot beyond knowing that Ben Affleck was in it. This decision proved to be a fortunate one, as Ben Affleck delivered one of his most outstanding performances in this film. His character, Christian Wolff, is a high-functioning autistic savant who navigates an unconventional path. The essence of his role in the movie is deeply moving, and Affleck's portrayal is nothing short of remarkable.

Story Honoring Different Kinds of Intelligence

The film intertwines with narratives of John Wick, The Bourne Identity, and The Transporter. However, The Accountant introduces a fascinating twist: it highlights the unique intelligence of certain individuals, who often fall outside the societal norms. The protagonist, played by Ben Affleck, offers a beacon of hope for those on the autistic spectrum, transforming the common understanding of a superhero.

Heartwarming and Unusual Blend

While the movie presents a heart-thumping thriller, it is far from being a typical heart-warmer. Instead, it offers a brisk, sometimes brutal narrative that is sprinkled with flashes of humor. What makes The Accountant truly satisfying is its ability to evoke genuine emotions and empathy from the viewers. I found it to be an incredibly fun and fulfilling watch, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an engaging and thought-provoking film experience.

Raw Realism: A Challenge for Entertainment

Interestingly, some aspects of the film, particularly the depiction of the autistic child and the father's abusive approach, are decidedly not heartwarming. The first scenes showing distressed autistic children were particularly challenging to watch. The father's abusive methods of dealing with his son's sensory needs and shyness, complete with bullying, were enraging to witness. In one poignant scene, Christian Wolff laments, 'I don’t know how to be close to people even though I want to.' It was at this moment that I, out of frustration, shouted at the TV, 'It's not because of your autism, it’s because of the abuse!'

Moreover, the movie includes an unnecessary subplot with the FBI that adds very little to the overall narrative. The characterization of J.K. Simmons and the female characters, especially the FBI analyst, remains underdeveloped. This imbalance in character depth stands out, as the female business partner and the mother are nearly unimportant in the grand scheme of the story.

Action Sequences and Heartwarming Moments

Despite its shortcomings, The Accountant boasts some exceptional action sequences. The choreography is impeccable, and the tension is well-maintained throughout the thrilling and suspenseful moments. The interactions between the old farming couple and Wolff are particularly enjoyable, offering a human touch amidst the technical onslaught. While occasionally maddening, Wolff's exchanges with Anna Kendrick can be endearing.

The film does redeem itself towards the end, particularly in the dialogue between Wolff and Jon Bernthal. Their on-screen chemistry is evident, and it's indeed a lovely moment. In his final speech, the therapist's message resonates strongly. The film's most compelling revelation is the unexpected loyalty of Wolff's assistant, a nonverbal autistic woman who remotely supports him through cutting-edge technology, encapsulating the film's tagline of recognizing different kinds of intelligence.

In rating the film, it is challenging to find a definitive score. The performances are solid, but the material is often problematic. Action sequences are impressive, yet the plotting is at times disheveled. On a scale of 1-5, I would give it 3 stars. However, it is the last 20 minutes that truly elevate the movie, making it a commendable effort.

In conclusion, The Accountant is an engaging thriller that pushes the envelope in terms of both entertainment and social commentary. It is a crucial addition to the genre, and its impact lies in the recognition of different kinds of human intelligences and breaking away from stereotypical superhero narratives.