The Book of Henry (2017) Movie Review: A Unique Blend of Drama and Mystery
“The Book of Henry” (2017), directed by Colin Trevorrow, is an emotionally charged drama that blends elements of mystery and thriller with a poignant family story. The film, written by Gregg Hurwitz, explores themes of family, justice, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones. This review will cover the plot, performances, direction, cinematography, themes, and streaming availability, especially in the United States.
Plot Summary
“The Book of Henry” centers on Susan Carpenter (Naomi Watts), a single mother struggling to provide for her two sons: Henry (Jaeden Martell), a precocious and brilliant child, and Peter (Jacob Tremblay), his younger sibling. Henry, who is exceptionally intelligent for his age, discovers that his neighbor, Glenn Sickleman (Dean Norris), is abusing his stepdaughter, Christina (Maddie Ziegler).
Determined to help Christina, Henry devises a complex plan to expose Glenn’s abuse and ensure justice. However, when Henry’s plan involves dangerous and illegal actions, Susan must navigate the moral and practical implications of her son’s scheme. As the situation escalates, Susan finds herself grappling with her own beliefs about justice and the lengths she will go to protect her family.
Performances
- Naomi Watts as Susan Carpenter delivers a nuanced and emotional performance, portraying the character’s struggle with both maternal instincts and ethical dilemmas. Watts’s portrayal adds depth to the film’s exploration of family and justice.
- Jaeden Martell as Henry provides a compelling and mature performance, capturing the character’s intelligence and determination. Martell’s portrayal adds a layer of complexity to the film’s central narrative.
- Jacob Tremblay as Peter offers a heartfelt performance as the younger brother, contributing to the film’s emotional impact. Tremblay’s role adds an element of innocence and vulnerability to the story.
- Dean Norris as Glenn Sickleman brings a menacing and unsettling presence to his role, enhancing the film’s tension and moral conflict.
Direction and Cinematography
Colin Trevorrow’s direction in “The Book of Henry” is characterized by its blend of emotional depth and suspense. Trevorrow’s approach allows the film to explore complex themes while maintaining a compelling narrative. His direction balances dramatic moments with elements of mystery, creating a film that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
The cinematography by John Schwartzman complements Trevorrow’s direction with its clean and evocative visuals. The film’s use of color and composition enhances the emotional and dramatic aspects of the story, creating a visually engaging experience that supports the narrative.
Themes and Symbolism
“The Book of Henry” explores themes of family, justice, and the ethical implications of taking the law into one’s own hands. The film delves into the moral complexities of seeking justice for others, particularly when it involves illegal and dangerous actions.
The film also examines the nature of family dynamics and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect loved ones. Through Henry’s plan and Susan’s decisions, the film addresses questions about parental responsibility, personal sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice.
Availability on Streaming Services
For audiences in the United States, “The Book of Henry” is available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. The film can also be rented or purchased on services like Google Play Movies, Apple iTunes, and Vudu. These options provide convenient access to this emotional and thought-provoking film.
Conclusion
“The Book of Henry” (2017) is a unique and emotionally charged film that offers a compelling blend of drama and mystery. With strong performances from Naomi Watts, Jaeden Martell, and Jacob Tremblay, combined with Colin Trevorrow’s thoughtful direction and John Schwartzman’s evocative cinematography, the film provides a powerful and engaging viewing experience.
With its availability on various streaming platforms, “The Book of Henry” is accessible to a wide audience. Whether you are interested in family dramas, thrillers, or stories about justice and morality, this film delivers a memorable and impactful cinematic experience.
