"Master" does not provide a way of catharsis, but it brings a lot of thinking to the audience. Through the stories of psychologists and assistants, the film deeply digs into the mysterious core of human emotions, and explores the way of individual emotional liberation and self-salvation. The film does not simply expose the cult scandal. The teachings and insights conveyed by Lancaster Dowd in the film can be clearly seen as he fabricated it as the plot develops. On the contrary, the structure of the film is made up of fierce struggles that are going on all the time. The film portrays Freddie Shatton as a helpless character. Even in a sexual fantasy scene beyond reality, the director suppressed the plot in Freddy's thought. Through this restraint, the audience is not guided to think about Freddy’s identity and state, but to recognize his social and psychological pressures at work.
"Master" is a complex and distinctive movie. Although some critics classify this film as a biography of Scientology or a revealing film, the plot shown in the film is more like a psychologist helping patients get out of psychological shackles. There are quite a lot of speculative dialogues and arguments between "masters" and seafarers, disciples, and people with different opinions in the film; these dialogues not only give the audience some enlightenment, but are also impressive.
The film has a masterful aura, director Paul Thomas Anderson has shown outstanding control ability, and the performance of the two male protagonists in the film is also very good. Jacques Finick gave a perfect performance in the film. And Philip Seymour Hoffman’s performance in this film is also full of charm. His speech maintains the perfect balance of fluency and absurdity, and his eyes are full of miracles and possibilities.
