A Most Violent Year

"Writer-director J C Chandor’s third feature may well be the poster child of the critic versus audience dilemma. There is no question that this is a qualitatively good film, stylistically strong and tonally gritty, reveling in the 1981 New York City setting. The cast is outstanding, Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain devouring the lead roles while the likes of Albert Brooks and David Oyelowo give scenery-eating performances in supporting roles. Yet this is the sort of movie that leaves people hating critics."

"A tough, gritty, richly atmospheric thriller."

"Further clarifies what might be the most promising career in American movies: an urban-headed filmmaker attuned to economies of place and time, with an eye on the vacant throne of Sidney Lumet."

"It’s a nocturnal fantasy, seductive and ablaze with threat."

"Presents an honorable man struggling to stay true to his values in the face of temptation. It is also the portrait of a brilliant hustler working a very long con. It's a terrific movie either way."

"Rigorous, resourceful and as smart as a whip."

"Chandor’s film suggests more than it can explore, and a contrived climax makes the film seem like less than the sum of what’s preceded it."

"It brings to mind the fierce New York-based productions of Sidney Lumet in particular but also the whole notion of character-driven, the-clock-is-ticking melodramas in general."

"Chandor peels back the layers of his story and characters with the skill of an expert dramatist."

"Stylish, sophisticated, simmering crime and character drama with Shakespearean dimension and bravura performances."