First Reformed

First Reformed is a slow-burning drama that dives into the complexities of faith and despair. With a backdrop of environmental crisis, it attempts to tackle weighty themes but often feels mired in its own existential dread.

A Pastor's Crisis of Faith

The film follows Pastor Ernst Toller, played by Ethan Hawke, who is grappling with his faith and personal demons in a small upstate New York church. After an unsettling meeting with an environmental activist and his pregnant wife, Toller spirals into a crisis that challenges his beliefs and morality. The narrative delves into the intersections of personal and global despair, exploring how Toller navigates guilt, faith, and the implications of climate change. It raises questions about the role of religion in a world increasingly on the brink of disaster, but sometimes feels like it’s trying too hard to be profound.

Performances Under Pressure

Ethan Hawke delivers a strong performance as Toller, effectively portraying his internal struggle and existential anguish. Amanda Seyfried’s character, Mary, is well-acted but feels underdeveloped, serving more as a plot device than a fully realized character. The supporting cast, including Cedric the Entertainer as Pastor Joel Jeffers, adds depth but doesn't always manage to elevate the narrative. While the acting is generally solid, some characters seem to fade into the background, leaving you wanting more interaction and development among them, particularly in how they relate to Toller.

A Reflective, Static Style

Director Paul Schrader employs a deliberate pacing that reflects Toller’s slow descent into despair. The cinematography captures the starkness of the upstate New York landscape, often mirroring the bleakness of Toller’s emotional state. However, the film can feel visually monotonous at times, relying heavily on static shots that verge on tedious. While there are moments of striking imagery, the overall visual experience lacks the dynamism that could have enhanced the storytelling. The choice to use a diary format is interesting but can also feel limiting, as it sometimes restricts the flow of the narrative.

Weighty Yet Worn Out

Watching First Reformed is like sitting through a sermon that occasionally stirs your thoughts but often leaves you feeling heavy and burdened. There are moments that resonate, particularly in Toller’s reflections on faith and despair, but the pacing can drag, leading to stretches of boredom. The film's focus on Toller’s inner turmoil sometimes overshadows the narrative, which can be frustrating. You might find yourself checking the runtime as the film lingers on its themes without providing enough dramatic payoff. The emotional weight is present, but it can also feel like a slog at times.