THE MASTER (2012)
Paul Thomas Anderson’s acclaimed psychodrama follows Freddie Quell (Joaquin Phoenix), a World War II Navy vet struggling to adjust to civilian life who is drifting into vagrancy until he meets the charismatic Lancaster Dodd (Philip Seymour Hoffman), a writer, thinker and leader of a nascent new religion called “The Cause.” Despite the misgiving of many in Dodd’s circle over Quells fitness for the movement — let alone his propensity toward violence — Dodd takes a firm liking to Quell, not the least for his moonshine-making skills. For a time, Quell devotes himself to learning the ways of Dodd’s teachings and fiercely, sometimes overzealously, defending “The Cause” when questioned by others. But the rollout of a new religion turns out to be a painstaking affair, replete with setbacks, and the two men’s opposites-attract friendship ultimately proves to be a volatile combination. Anderson’s most challenging and mysterious film features bravura performances from Phoenix and Hoffman, with an exquisite ensemble cast that includes Amy Adams, Laura Dern, Jesse Plemons, Rami Malek and Lena Endre. DIR/SCR/PROD Paul Thomas Anderson; PROD Megan Ellison, Daniel Lupi, JoAnne Sellar. U.S., 2012, color, 138 min. RATED R
Run Time: 138 Minutes
Opening Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Genre: Drama
