Indignation

Indignation is a poignant and introspective drama film directed by James Schamus, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2016. The story is adapted from Philip Roth's novel of the same name, and it takes place in 1951 Ohio during the Korean War.

The film follows the life of Marcus Messner, brilliantly portrayed by Logan Lerman, a prominent Jewish student who has recently graduated from high school and is preparing to leave for college. Marcus is an intelligent and ambitious young man who excels academically but is haunted by the fear of being drafted to serve in the Korean War. To avoid the draft, he enrolls in an Ohio-based college to study liberal arts and philosophy.

Once on campus, Marcus finds himself navigating the unfamiliar terrain of college life, and he quickly discovers that the atmosphere is very different from what he is accustomed to. Marcus clashes with the college administration and is subjected to the school's stringent rules and regulations, particularly regarding restrictions on his lifestyle.

As he struggles to acclimate to his new surroundings, Marcus meets Olivia Hutton, played by the talented Sarah Gadon. Olivia is an alluring and mysterious young woman who exudes a raw sensuality that Marcus finds both intriguing and alarming. Despite their immediate attraction to one another, Marcus and Olivia's relationship is fraught with danger, complications, and unspoken desires.

The film's depicted characters and storyline are not typical of the romantic-comedy genre. In Indignation, the relationship between Marcus and Olivia evolves thoughtfully; the two move from excessive verbal caresses to intercourse but still grapple through unspoken dilemmas that exist between them. Essentially, their relationship is a representation of the upheavals going on across America due to social patterns- sexuality, race, and war.

Throughout the movie, Logan Lerman's character is confronted by various challenges, both philosophical and personal, that test his character and force him to confront the demons within himself. Among the most notable of these challenges are his clashes with The Dean of Men, known as Hawes Caudwell, played by Tracy Letts. Hawes Caudwell is the embodiment of the conservative values of the time, and as such, he and Marcus have heated exchanges about their conflicting beliefs.

Moreover, the film touches upon broader social problems that most of America was grappling with during that time, including the war, race relations, and the politics of class. These issues are portrayed primarily through Marcus's experiences; his initial excitement with having the privileges that come with being at the college, however, realizes he's in a whole new world where quick judgments, stigma, and racism play a vital role.

Overall, Indignation is a thought-provoking and compelling film that offers a realistic portrayal of life in the early 1950s, while also examining broader societal issues that still persist today. The movie boasts strong performances from its leads, particularly in the case of Logan Lerman, who delivers a nuanced and emotionally resonant portrayal of his character.

In conclusion, the idea that one must choose between love and knowledge is subtly woven into the film, and its execution offers a measure of heartbreak that leaves the audience thoughtful. The movie's visual aesthetics are exceptional, as the backdrop mirrors the scenes' mood; the cinematography aids the narrative compellingly. Indignation is a poignant and thought-provoking film that offers much for its audience to consider and ultimately ponder.