Armageddon Time – REVIEW
Image: Michael Banks Repeta and Anthony Hopkins in Armageddon Time
Growing up is never easy for 10 year old children, especially when living in a traditional three generational Jewish household as young Paul discovers in this coming of age drama.
The film stars Jeremy Strong and Anne Hathaway as the strict parents and legendary Anthony Hopkins in a supporting role, as the grandfather who holds the extensive family unit together and also navigates his grandson through the childhood traumas he encounters.
Set in 1980, Queens in New York, this is quintessentially the study of a Jewish family unit that follows their trials and tribulations as they chase the American dream of being financially secure, sending their children to college and finding acceptance within the community as equal American citizens.
Paul is described as objectionable by his father who harshly disciplines his son hoping that he’ll turn out in life much better than he did. Paul is regarded as being slow and abnormal by his father for the sole reason that he dreams of being an artist.
Is it a sign of weakness to dream? Should Paul heed the traditional rules his parents have initiated to steadily guide him towards ‘the right path’ that leads to success, respect, and acceptance from the community in general?
A majority of the film follows Paul’s endeavours and his close friendship that builds with a young black school friend, not realising the harsh lessons that awaits him as he slowly ventures towards the doors of adulthood.
It was disturbing to note, that considering the religious persecution this Jewish Family suffered during the Nazi regime of WWII which led to the extermination of their loved ones, they too were racist; their very own blatant discrimination towards the blacks was vastly evident.
Chasing the American dream for this Jewish family is ultimately harrowing, clouded by past dark memories of persecution, tragedy, racism, and adverse encounters with the law.
★★★1/2
