I grew up in NYC and went to PS 154 around the same time Banks Repeta's character did, so I can totally relate to the story. That doesn't mean it makes this film better for me. In fact. I kept thinking "so what?". This entire story is a reality that almost everyone has experienced, whatever side of the coin you're on, so it's absolutely nothing revolutionary, and for that matter, it was rather hollow and bland. It was at least 30 mins too long, and the pacing was too slow to maintain engagement with the narrative. It was all basic filler with very little substance. Nevertheless, the young actors delivered convincing performances, as did the A-listers - although we have to expect that from them. I want to say it's a decent one-time watch for a reason I can't find, so I wont. You'll basically see great performances, a great score and soundtrack, excellent cinematography, but no compelling narrative. It's a generous 6/10 from me, only because it brought back memories when I was growing up in that era and neighborhood.
112 Reviews
Childhood memories.
AfricanBro4 November 2022
Didn't really know what the movie was about heading in, but even so the opening sequence was confusing and that feeling persists throughout as the narrative is somewhat chaotic, but this is the result of the movie being shown from a child's point of view. The movie seems like an authentic family experience, and for the most part I didn't really know what the purpose is or what it was leading to but still enjoyed it. A film that's massively elevated by the cast's performances.
The kids can get annoying at times as kids do but the movie let's you relate to them and feel their emotions. It has a few very uncomfortable scenes and has a constant piteous feel after the first act or so. We're just witnessing a family's life, so there's no actual story to it and narration feels off because life isn't always linear or follows a path. This will definitely put some people off.
The acting is superb, especially from the kids who're the lead roles and able to convey their emotion across; Anthony Hopkins and Anne Hathaway were amazing despite being only in supporting roles, felt like watching real people in real life not in a movie. Jessica Chastain was a surprise, she seemed off but I also think that's how her character was meant to be portrayed. It's just unfortunate such great performances had no story for them to hold together. The movie just feels like childhood memories to me all jumbled up.
It's not a movie for everyone and I hesitate to call it perfect nor recommend it but it is beautiful and the performances alone make this a worthy watch. The story wasn't much to behold, but I'll remember this for the heart rending feel it gave. I am still confused as to where the movie titled came from.
The kids can get annoying at times as kids do but the movie let's you relate to them and feel their emotions. It has a few very uncomfortable scenes and has a constant piteous feel after the first act or so. We're just witnessing a family's life, so there's no actual story to it and narration feels off because life isn't always linear or follows a path. This will definitely put some people off.
The acting is superb, especially from the kids who're the lead roles and able to convey their emotion across; Anthony Hopkins and Anne Hathaway were amazing despite being only in supporting roles, felt like watching real people in real life not in a movie. Jessica Chastain was a surprise, she seemed off but I also think that's how her character was meant to be portrayed. It's just unfortunate such great performances had no story for them to hold together. The movie just feels like childhood memories to me all jumbled up.
It's not a movie for everyone and I hesitate to call it perfect nor recommend it but it is beautiful and the performances alone make this a worthy watch. The story wasn't much to behold, but I'll remember this for the heart rending feel it gave. I am still confused as to where the movie titled came from.
Complex characters in meandering story
benjaminskylerhill4 November 2022
James Gray really can write psychologically and morally complex characters better than the vast majority of filmmakers working today. The central family portrayed in his latest film showcases this.
The people in Gray's 1980 New York are all remarkably flawed with objectionable traits and tendencies, yet they have tangible human qualities that make watching them a constantly riveting experience. They struggle to live and love and Gray gives them all little satisfying moments to grow.
As for the performances, they're equally awe-inspiring, especially Anne Hathaway and Anthony Hopkins. But the young boy, Banks Repeta, is also a standout and manages to carry most of the film on his own.
Plot-wise, however, the film is seriously lacking in momentum and substance. There really is no inviting incident nor is there even a real central conflict in the film; just small subplots that begin and sometimes come to an end over the course of the movie.
The lack of tangible pacing and progress makes the story's conclusion feel a bit hollow and empty, but the journey itself is packed with little rewarding moments and powerful scenes that make the overall experience a mostly satisfying one.
The people in Gray's 1980 New York are all remarkably flawed with objectionable traits and tendencies, yet they have tangible human qualities that make watching them a constantly riveting experience. They struggle to live and love and Gray gives them all little satisfying moments to grow.
As for the performances, they're equally awe-inspiring, especially Anne Hathaway and Anthony Hopkins. But the young boy, Banks Repeta, is also a standout and manages to carry most of the film on his own.
Plot-wise, however, the film is seriously lacking in momentum and substance. There really is no inviting incident nor is there even a real central conflict in the film; just small subplots that begin and sometimes come to an end over the course of the movie.
The lack of tangible pacing and progress makes the story's conclusion feel a bit hollow and empty, but the journey itself is packed with little rewarding moments and powerful scenes that make the overall experience a mostly satisfying one.
Acute but quiet look at racism and bigotry in '80's Queens. Not Till.
JohnDeSando4 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
"Sometimes kids at school say things about the Black kids." Paul Graff (Banks Repeta)
"What do you do when that happens?" Grandpa Aaron Rabinowitz (Anthony Hopkins)
"Obviously, nothing." Paul Graff
Grandpa Aaron Rabinowitz: "Do you think that's smart?"
In the low-key, muted, effective Armageddon Time, writer-director James Gray remembers his childhood in 1980 Queens where his 11-year-old stand in, naïve Paul, faces the realities of racism and privilege. It's conservative time with the election of Ronald Reagan, hawkish as he was about the nuclear option, and a condescending speech at Paul's very private Kew-Forest school by a Trump family member, Maryanne (Jessica Chastain), an attorney with an exhortation for students to make it on their own (We now know better, at least for the Trumps).
Paul is coming of age amidst the privilege of a family that can afford private school. It's apparent that the Graff family suffered through the war and even now, enough to change their surname and avoid clashes with white supremacists. Just as some Italians did, they assimilate well enough to enjoy a screening of Private Benjamin without a wince. PTA pres mom (Anne Hathaway) is a promise that ornery Paul will not be expelled for his anger at racist teachers.
Nor will he be detained for stealing a computer from his school with his black friend, Johnny (Jaylin Webb), because of his dad's (Jeremy Strong) connection with a cop. Johnny will be detained, and Paul may never see him again. Paul learns the limits of his protest that the theft was his idea when privilege releases him and incarcerates Johnny. Although Paul tacitly supports the demands of inequality, this remembrance may be the only antidote years later.
Wisdom lives within Grandpa Aaron Rabinowitz (Anthony Hopkins), who encourages Paul to speak out against bigotry (see opening quote), helps him launch a rocket, and brings calm to an otherwise fractious family. Yet, it's grandpa who sends Paul to the private school in a gesture to their assimilation and furtherance from social equality.
If you need a respite from the demands of Till, about the horrible racism that lynched Emmett Till in 1955, then Armageddon Time is a quieter take with the added insight of a Jewish perspective. Social inequality is alive and well, however, today.
In the low-key, muted, effective Armageddon Time, writer-director James Gray remembers his childhood in 1980 Queens where his 11-year-old stand in, naïve Paul, faces the realities of racism and privilege. It's conservative time with the election of Ronald Reagan, hawkish as he was about the nuclear option, and a condescending speech at Paul's very private Kew-Forest school by a Trump family member, Maryanne (Jessica Chastain), an attorney with an exhortation for students to make it on their own (We now know better, at least for the Trumps).
Paul is coming of age amidst the privilege of a family that can afford private school. It's apparent that the Graff family suffered through the war and even now, enough to change their surname and avoid clashes with white supremacists. Just as some Italians did, they assimilate well enough to enjoy a screening of Private Benjamin without a wince. PTA pres mom (Anne Hathaway) is a promise that ornery Paul will not be expelled for his anger at racist teachers.
Nor will he be detained for stealing a computer from his school with his black friend, Johnny (Jaylin Webb), because of his dad's (Jeremy Strong) connection with a cop. Johnny will be detained, and Paul may never see him again. Paul learns the limits of his protest that the theft was his idea when privilege releases him and incarcerates Johnny. Although Paul tacitly supports the demands of inequality, this remembrance may be the only antidote years later.
Wisdom lives within Grandpa Aaron Rabinowitz (Anthony Hopkins), who encourages Paul to speak out against bigotry (see opening quote), helps him launch a rocket, and brings calm to an otherwise fractious family. Yet, it's grandpa who sends Paul to the private school in a gesture to their assimilation and furtherance from social equality.
If you need a respite from the demands of Till, about the horrible racism that lynched Emmett Till in 1955, then Armageddon Time is a quieter take with the added insight of a Jewish perspective. Social inequality is alive and well, however, today.
Overrated
df16699n17 November 2022
I love coming of age movies, but I just didn't care for this one at all. There was just nothing in this movie that I found particularly interesting or new, I know it was based on the directors life, but it just felt unnecessary. I definitely found this to be overrated considering the positive reviews it has gotten. I would be surprised if this is a major award contender like I thought it would be, because it was just so bleak and dull. It also doesn't help when the majority of the characters in the film are very unlikable. Lastly, one minor aspect that I was very frustrated with was the main kid being a Yankees fan, when it is mentioned multiple times that they live in Queens and are by Flushing. Reggie Jackson poster, yankee sticker in the bedroom and mentions of Ron Guidry... come on give the Mets some love. Waste of time.
Just Okay
jlthornb5118 November 2022
If director Gray thinks Reagan mentioning Armageddon was traumatic, he ought to talk to those of us who lived through the Cuban Missile Crisis! Other than being scared by the suggestion of nuclear war rather than actually being on the brink of it, this film is lackluster and derivitive. Nothing original and nothing new to say, with pedestrian direction, and an uninspired script. This is a movie that thinks it has a lot to say but it just doesn't have anything interesting to say. It's hard to become invested in such silly, shallow, and self-absorbed characters. An excellent cast does the best they can but it all adds up to very little indeed.
The film offers an excellent illustration of several issues in society.
trinaboice26 October 2023
IN A NUTSHELL:
The movie is a deeply personal coming-of-age story about the strength of family and the generational pursuit of the American Dream.
The film was written and directed by James Gray. One of the shenanigans the two boys come up with in the story came from something he and his childhood friend did. This is his first digitally-shot movie, receiving a 7-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival in 2022.
THINGS I LIKED: The fantastic cast includes Academy Award winners Sir Anthony Hopkins, Anne Hathaway, and Jessica Chastain. We also get to see 4-time Tony Award nominee Tovah Feldshuh. For me, the standout performance was Anne Hathaway. Her character was complex and she portrayed it all with a New York accent and conflicted flair.
The young actor who plays Paul Graff, Banks Repeta, does a great job. Jaylin Webb also gives a good performance as Paul's best friend.
The movie gets its title from the song by the Clash. There is a scene where we see President Ronald Reagan talking about the end of the world. That's another reason why the movie got its title "Armageddon." We get to visit the Guggenheim Museum in the movie, as well as see other New York City sites.
It's impossible to say anything negative about a movie that features Sir Anthony Hopkins. He's fantastic as always. Unfortunately, he's not in the movie as much as most of us would like.
The film offers an excellent illustration of several issues in society.
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE: The protagonist is a bratty kid, making it difficult to root for him. He creates his own problems.
It's a slow burn that meanders.
The movie kind of ends abruptly and ambiguously.
TIPS FOR PARENTS: Kids will be completely bored.
There's talk of war in Europe.
Two boys in middle school are disrespectful and get into trouble.
Profanity, including F-bombs, mostly spoken by kids Racism is portrayed Kids smoke a joint The "N" word is used once The parents fight a lot A boy hears his parents talk about how he has no potential and is "slow" A family member dies and we see people at a funeral.
!
The film was written and directed by James Gray. One of the shenanigans the two boys come up with in the story came from something he and his childhood friend did. This is his first digitally-shot movie, receiving a 7-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival in 2022.
THINGS I LIKED: The fantastic cast includes Academy Award winners Sir Anthony Hopkins, Anne Hathaway, and Jessica Chastain. We also get to see 4-time Tony Award nominee Tovah Feldshuh. For me, the standout performance was Anne Hathaway. Her character was complex and she portrayed it all with a New York accent and conflicted flair.
The young actor who plays Paul Graff, Banks Repeta, does a great job. Jaylin Webb also gives a good performance as Paul's best friend.
The movie gets its title from the song by the Clash. There is a scene where we see President Ronald Reagan talking about the end of the world. That's another reason why the movie got its title "Armageddon." We get to visit the Guggenheim Museum in the movie, as well as see other New York City sites.
It's impossible to say anything negative about a movie that features Sir Anthony Hopkins. He's fantastic as always. Unfortunately, he's not in the movie as much as most of us would like.
The film offers an excellent illustration of several issues in society.
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE: The protagonist is a bratty kid, making it difficult to root for him. He creates his own problems.
It's a slow burn that meanders.
The movie kind of ends abruptly and ambiguously.
TIPS FOR PARENTS: Kids will be completely bored.
There's talk of war in Europe.
Two boys in middle school are disrespectful and get into trouble.
Profanity, including F-bombs, mostly spoken by kids Racism is portrayed Kids smoke a joint The "N" word is used once The parents fight a lot A boy hears his parents talk about how he has no potential and is "slow" A family member dies and we see people at a funeral.
!
A mixed bag
ethanbresnett9 December 2022
Armageddon Time is a strange one. I enjoyed it, it has a lot to say and says it well for the most part, but it felt like something was missing.
Firstly it's worth saying the film is full of great performances, particularly Banks Repeta in the lead role. It takes a little warming up to, but he is clearly going for something very specific in his characterisation of Paul and it really does work. The supporting cast of Hopkins, Strong, and Hathaway are all very watchable, especially Hopkins who brings a great warmth to the whole piece.
The story is where things get a bit mixed. As a coming of age story it touched on some interesting themes and had some poignant points to make about race, family, and 80s America. However as an overall story it missed the mark for me. The narrative arc left a bit to be desired and I sometimes felt a bit of a disconnect from the characters and the story.
The result is a mixed film that certainly has its moments, but fails to fully draw you in and connect you with its characters.
Firstly it's worth saying the film is full of great performances, particularly Banks Repeta in the lead role. It takes a little warming up to, but he is clearly going for something very specific in his characterisation of Paul and it really does work. The supporting cast of Hopkins, Strong, and Hathaway are all very watchable, especially Hopkins who brings a great warmth to the whole piece.
The story is where things get a bit mixed. As a coming of age story it touched on some interesting themes and had some poignant points to make about race, family, and 80s America. However as an overall story it missed the mark for me. The narrative arc left a bit to be desired and I sometimes felt a bit of a disconnect from the characters and the story.
The result is a mixed film that certainly has its moments, but fails to fully draw you in and connect you with its characters.
A coming of age story with no nostalgia
parksiet6 November 2022
As the credits of "Armageddon Time" began to roll, I noticed a man sitting in front of me lean over to the couple beside him. He asked them if that was it, as he didn't understand what the movie was trying to say and thought there had to be more to it. They responded "that was our childhood", as if having just watched a memory from their childhoods in the 80s. The man then asked them if they missed that time. They swiftly responded with a "Not at all". I bring this up because, as someone who didn't grow up in the 80s, this movie showed me why that couple said "not at all". So many coming-of-age films that take place in the 70s, 80s or 90s eras usually glorify the times they take place in with lots of nostalgic feelings from the writers and directors behind them. This movie was one of the first that told this type of story without using a charming, nostalgic lens, and it was actually quite refreshing. James Gray doesn't seem very pleased with the past: he doesn't seem pleased with his own past.
Much like what Cameron Crowe did with "Almost Famous" this film uses elements from Gray's own childhood, however this film is not as nostalgic as Crowe's, and very clearly shows decisions his childhood self made that he is not very proud of. Some may label this a "white guilt" film, which I agree with, and I think this emboldens the film's message and clearly lays out what Gray is trying to do. The film deals with themes of inequality (mainly racial inequality) as well as morality and the generational pursuit of the so-called "American Dream". It is a very matter-of-fact look at this 12 year old boy's life in the 80s as he navigates his life, dreams, school, family and his friendship with a black boy. I felt very absorbed in the drama of his life, and there was very little sensationalism about it. It is more James Grey reflecting on his childhood and the nature of growing up in the 80s. The plot can meander at times, but the most fascinating element that kept me engaged was this film's dissection of white privilege. The friendship between Paul and the black boy in his class, Johnny, makes Paul realize that even though both of them are troublemakers, one of them will always face greater consequences. The film doesn't shy away from this, and also draws parallels between the rampant republicanism of the Reagan era and modern politics, even featuring a scene with Fred and Mary Trump. These two preach that all the success you have in life is due to hard work and determination, and that handouts are essentially meaningless, and at the same time we see clear examples in this movie of white people leveraging their power and wealth to make sure that each other maintains an advantage. This movie is indeed a takedown of white privilege, and it is pretty direct and damning while not feeling forced, James Gray just hits the nail right on the head.
The characters in the film are all quite complex in their own ways, and while a lot of the credit does have to go to the writing, it is the acting that makes them all stand out. Banks Repeat is wonderfully cast as Paul, and it reminds me of the casting of Elsie Fisher in "Eighth Grade", casting a child actor who may not be the most well-polished or well-trained, but instead really felt believable as a misfit, allowing the dialogue and delivery to feel authentic to how people at that age communicate. He was really great in this role! Anne Hathaway is good here too - I wouldn't say she's doing anything that will surprise anyone who has seen her work before. Same goes for Anthony Hopkins, but at least his role is a lot more weighty. Still feels like he could do this performance in his sleep though! The one who really surprised me (probably because I haven't seen "Succession") was Jeremy Strong, as he initially comes across as a stern, emotionally distant father, but later in the film he has scenes where the emotions start to come through the cracks. There is one particularly charming scene with him too where he's clanging and dancing around trying to wake up his kids in the morning. Strong was really allowed to showcase such a range. The characters were all very interesting, but there were points I wished the script explored the family dynamics/relationships a bit more.
There are many instances with the script that I wish it took a little more time to go into greater depth, and doesn't go as deep into some of the themes as much as I would have liked it to. Gray lets the plot meander along, and it did feel like without the thematic elements this movie would not be as strong as it is. This is after all a pretty standard drama film, and I'm somewhat doubtful of its awards chances. It is really good, but overall nothing too crazy. Heck, I only liked it this much after thinking about it for a while after watching it, when I initially finished it I was a little more lukewarm on the film. I have felt mixed about most of Gray's films, but I think I liked this one most out of all of them. It feels like an old school Hollywood coming of age story, and really does feel like this is from Gray's childhood. It feels like you are reading an autobiographical book at times, and there are pros and cons to that. One con being it does feel a little like a montage film at times, as it jumps from relationship to relationship and never dives too deeply into each aspect. This will work for some people, it did for me, and for some it won't, but regardless it will leave you feeling like it was a tad undercooked at times. But I thought it was very worth the watch! I don't think it will be up for too many awards this year, it is a pretty standard drama and it isn't working for many people, but it is a good movie to me at least!
Much like what Cameron Crowe did with "Almost Famous" this film uses elements from Gray's own childhood, however this film is not as nostalgic as Crowe's, and very clearly shows decisions his childhood self made that he is not very proud of. Some may label this a "white guilt" film, which I agree with, and I think this emboldens the film's message and clearly lays out what Gray is trying to do. The film deals with themes of inequality (mainly racial inequality) as well as morality and the generational pursuit of the so-called "American Dream". It is a very matter-of-fact look at this 12 year old boy's life in the 80s as he navigates his life, dreams, school, family and his friendship with a black boy. I felt very absorbed in the drama of his life, and there was very little sensationalism about it. It is more James Grey reflecting on his childhood and the nature of growing up in the 80s. The plot can meander at times, but the most fascinating element that kept me engaged was this film's dissection of white privilege. The friendship between Paul and the black boy in his class, Johnny, makes Paul realize that even though both of them are troublemakers, one of them will always face greater consequences. The film doesn't shy away from this, and also draws parallels between the rampant republicanism of the Reagan era and modern politics, even featuring a scene with Fred and Mary Trump. These two preach that all the success you have in life is due to hard work and determination, and that handouts are essentially meaningless, and at the same time we see clear examples in this movie of white people leveraging their power and wealth to make sure that each other maintains an advantage. This movie is indeed a takedown of white privilege, and it is pretty direct and damning while not feeling forced, James Gray just hits the nail right on the head.
The characters in the film are all quite complex in their own ways, and while a lot of the credit does have to go to the writing, it is the acting that makes them all stand out. Banks Repeat is wonderfully cast as Paul, and it reminds me of the casting of Elsie Fisher in "Eighth Grade", casting a child actor who may not be the most well-polished or well-trained, but instead really felt believable as a misfit, allowing the dialogue and delivery to feel authentic to how people at that age communicate. He was really great in this role! Anne Hathaway is good here too - I wouldn't say she's doing anything that will surprise anyone who has seen her work before. Same goes for Anthony Hopkins, but at least his role is a lot more weighty. Still feels like he could do this performance in his sleep though! The one who really surprised me (probably because I haven't seen "Succession") was Jeremy Strong, as he initially comes across as a stern, emotionally distant father, but later in the film he has scenes where the emotions start to come through the cracks. There is one particularly charming scene with him too where he's clanging and dancing around trying to wake up his kids in the morning. Strong was really allowed to showcase such a range. The characters were all very interesting, but there were points I wished the script explored the family dynamics/relationships a bit more.
There are many instances with the script that I wish it took a little more time to go into greater depth, and doesn't go as deep into some of the themes as much as I would have liked it to. Gray lets the plot meander along, and it did feel like without the thematic elements this movie would not be as strong as it is. This is after all a pretty standard drama film, and I'm somewhat doubtful of its awards chances. It is really good, but overall nothing too crazy. Heck, I only liked it this much after thinking about it for a while after watching it, when I initially finished it I was a little more lukewarm on the film. I have felt mixed about most of Gray's films, but I think I liked this one most out of all of them. It feels like an old school Hollywood coming of age story, and really does feel like this is from Gray's childhood. It feels like you are reading an autobiographical book at times, and there are pros and cons to that. One con being it does feel a little like a montage film at times, as it jumps from relationship to relationship and never dives too deeply into each aspect. This will work for some people, it did for me, and for some it won't, but regardless it will leave you feeling like it was a tad undercooked at times. But I thought it was very worth the watch! I don't think it will be up for too many awards this year, it is a pretty standard drama and it isn't working for many people, but it is a good movie to me at least!
A unique and realistic coming of age story
marnold9730623 November 2022
I was of the same approximate age during the same era as the protagonist's story is told. So I can firsthand say I was very impressed on how the narrative developed throughout with superb realism.
One of the most important things I had noticed which makes this highly unique to similar coming of age stories is there is no prepubescent sexual angst. Which is more common than not. It was refreshing actually. There are undertones of racism in 1980s in Queens, NY which is expected. The film was not focused on that primarily. Instead it was more weaving an account of a young boy's differences with his parents and their customs.
Anthony Hopkins was delightful as the boy's grandfather and mentor. The young actor Banks Repeta who played the main was exceptionally good. All and all a delightful change to the repetitive coming of age stories we see more than not.
One of the most important things I had noticed which makes this highly unique to similar coming of age stories is there is no prepubescent sexual angst. Which is more common than not. It was refreshing actually. There are undertones of racism in 1980s in Queens, NY which is expected. The film was not focused on that primarily. Instead it was more weaving an account of a young boy's differences with his parents and their customs.
Anthony Hopkins was delightful as the boy's grandfather and mentor. The young actor Banks Repeta who played the main was exceptionally good. All and all a delightful change to the repetitive coming of age stories we see more than not.
Disengaging & Dull...
Xstal24 November 2022
You've seen it many times before, watching other people grow up's such a chore, we've all been adolescent, distracted and pubescent, it's a boring set of takes and you will snore. Perhaps if it had something new to say, portrayed a family more uniquely in their way, a novel circumstance, to catch your eye, a second glance, not monotony of children in their play. If you make it to the end you might just wonder, why fine actors chose to loot your time and plunder, must be quite a fallow year, to want to make this and appear, in something that's so dull, it makes you want to slumber.
Although it also makes you wonder whether an aging Welshman is the only person who could have filled that specific role.
Although it also makes you wonder whether an aging Welshman is the only person who could have filled that specific role.
Touching coming-of-age film with an abstruse title, widely misunderstood
PotassiumMan27 February 2023
Director James Gray recreates his childhood in Queens in 1980, growing up in a modest Jewish family and witnessing upheavals in his own life, including a dicey friendship with a kid from the other side of town and the trouble it brings. Among his family, he is closest with his aging, but inspiring grandfather who urges him to become his best self. His parents and older brother, on the other hand, are aloof and ossified, not on his wavelength at all.
Any kid who grew up in New York City in the late 20th Century will find this engaging, fascinating and evocative. Other viewers might find this film meandering. It's a touching slice of life and an old school story about a young man who sees and understands the adversity that other kids less fortunate than him have to go through. Although this film's title turns out to be an esoteric reference to political rhetoric used at the dawn of the Reagan years, in itself it conveys little about what the real story is about. The Presidential election provides an historical backdrop, but the liberal family's political angst is more a nostalgic detail rather than a central storyline.
Performances overall are quite good, with Anthony Hopkins doing the heavy lifting as the sage grandfather who is the backbone of the family. Banks Repeta is compelling as the protagonist. Jaylin Webb is likeable as a black kid trying to navigate an America that has just begun to integrate. Anne Hathaway makes an impression as the fiercely overbearing mother. Jeremy Strong is solid as the boy's working class father, although his character is disappointingly one-dimensional. Jessica Chastain is utilized in little better than a cameo appearance.
Some voiced criticisms deserve a response. The notion that this film has no plot and no ending is a pretty clear misreading; I would hope that those who have watched were at least paying attention. Reviewers who have political grievances against this film have missed the point entirely. But for those who like an old school depiction of adolescent turmoil and budding social awareness, this film is grandly recommended.
Any kid who grew up in New York City in the late 20th Century will find this engaging, fascinating and evocative. Other viewers might find this film meandering. It's a touching slice of life and an old school story about a young man who sees and understands the adversity that other kids less fortunate than him have to go through. Although this film's title turns out to be an esoteric reference to political rhetoric used at the dawn of the Reagan years, in itself it conveys little about what the real story is about. The Presidential election provides an historical backdrop, but the liberal family's political angst is more a nostalgic detail rather than a central storyline.
Performances overall are quite good, with Anthony Hopkins doing the heavy lifting as the sage grandfather who is the backbone of the family. Banks Repeta is compelling as the protagonist. Jaylin Webb is likeable as a black kid trying to navigate an America that has just begun to integrate. Anne Hathaway makes an impression as the fiercely overbearing mother. Jeremy Strong is solid as the boy's working class father, although his character is disappointingly one-dimensional. Jessica Chastain is utilized in little better than a cameo appearance.
Some voiced criticisms deserve a response. The notion that this film has no plot and no ending is a pretty clear misreading; I would hope that those who have watched were at least paying attention. Reviewers who have political grievances against this film have missed the point entirely. But for those who like an old school depiction of adolescent turmoil and budding social awareness, this film is grandly recommended.
Entertaining and Enlightening
subxerogravity7 November 2022
That was a pleasant surprise
I really enjoyed this one. It's a small picture with a big message. Armageddon Time was an honest movie, sometimes painfully honest about how the world works and how unfair it is and kind of sad how young the children in the movie had to learn that lesson.
If feels like a very personal coming of age story about a boy at the start of the 80s, an artist at heart trying to find himself, living under a roof with a family that does not fully understand him, except his grandfather played by Sir Anthony Hopkins, and he meets a friend who gets him, but the cultural divides of Queens over 40 years ago will test that bromance.
Armageddon time hits hard with the life lesson that would upset some and sadden others yet despite this it was an absolutely amazing film to see with an amazing cast of characters.
Thumbs up!
I really enjoyed this one. It's a small picture with a big message. Armageddon Time was an honest movie, sometimes painfully honest about how the world works and how unfair it is and kind of sad how young the children in the movie had to learn that lesson.
If feels like a very personal coming of age story about a boy at the start of the 80s, an artist at heart trying to find himself, living under a roof with a family that does not fully understand him, except his grandfather played by Sir Anthony Hopkins, and he meets a friend who gets him, but the cultural divides of Queens over 40 years ago will test that bromance.
Armageddon time hits hard with the life lesson that would upset some and sadden others yet despite this it was an absolutely amazing film to see with an amazing cast of characters.
Thumbs up!
As exciting as plain quinoa oatmeal
penny-155399 November 2022
Watching the trailer left me confused as to the point of the movie, after having watched the movie I now understand why... At no point did this film reflect anything remotely resembling a coherent story, it was a vague artsy attempt at an emotional tale, and relying far too much on the acting of Anthony Hopkins to prop it up. This is the movie of a first year cinema student trying to make their mark on the world, while failing to add any plot, charisma, or really any substance, leaving you with a perplexing angsty childhood narrative.
I have seen more characterisation in Taylor Swifts breakup lyrics, and more plot on the comic strip on the back of my child's cereal box then was in this movie.
Trust me whatever fulfilment you seek in this movie, you will be sadly left with a sour taste in your mouth, and perhaps a high score on Candy Crush as literally any distraction has more entertainment value then this masquerade.
I have seen more characterisation in Taylor Swifts breakup lyrics, and more plot on the comic strip on the back of my child's cereal box then was in this movie.
Trust me whatever fulfilment you seek in this movie, you will be sadly left with a sour taste in your mouth, and perhaps a high score on Candy Crush as literally any distraction has more entertainment value then this masquerade.
Authentic vibe but open ended
Fanjina34243431 October 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I liked the film a lot. Saw it in NY. The whole cast is perfect. I like that some are not people but vibes and others are people. It wasn't overload. Nothing bad to say except the ending felt a little cold. I like that you feel like you are watching it from the boy's point of view. The Johnny actor is so good too. Brings back a lot of memories about growing up in sheepshead bay though it is set in queens. You want Johnny to come out on top but you get a sense that is not the case. I think people will like this one. It is not what I thought it was going to be based on the trailers. I thought they were going to make all of us feel guilt but its like a reminder that we are all the decision makers in the road we choose to walk. It was nice to see it in a theater too. This was our first movie in a theater since 2019.
Privilege can be a burden!
verticalhorizonation27 January 2023
Thia is the only idea that caught my attention in this film.
Being a thirteen or so young boy with a caring full family that loves you, and protects you, this is a privilege.
But no boy at that age is going to realise it despite all the trouble he seems to adore.
I actually hoped the film will focus on the idea of art at that time and originality, but apparently they had other plans.
I think the film discussed and focused at that period of time as a whole and its after effects on the new generation of young boys. Honestly, i didn't feel connected to the boy. I wasn't engaged.
Other than all that, the acting was very good and Sir Anthony Hopkins is always nice to see.
Being a thirteen or so young boy with a caring full family that loves you, and protects you, this is a privilege.
But no boy at that age is going to realise it despite all the trouble he seems to adore.
I actually hoped the film will focus on the idea of art at that time and originality, but apparently they had other plans.
I think the film discussed and focused at that period of time as a whole and its after effects on the new generation of young boys. Honestly, i didn't feel connected to the boy. I wasn't engaged.
Other than all that, the acting was very good and Sir Anthony Hopkins is always nice to see.
Lacks focus or emotional strength
arabnikita1 December 2022
Armageddon Time (2022)
I don't understand why I didn't enjoy this film because normally I love these kinds of coming of age stories. Moreover, I watched this primarily for Anthony Hopkins' and as always, he delivered a terrific performance which should have sealed the deal and yet, it didn't. The director's intention is clearly there but when all the elements come together, the experience feels watered down as the film fails to have a clear focus.
Armageddon Time is a story a young boy who lives with his big family and that's about it. He is a mischievous and to some extent, an entitled brat who seems to only respect his grandfather. The movie tries to make us connect with the boy by showing various adventures and while some moments feel humorous and joyful, they barely make an impact. The sequences with the family are definitely the most enjoyable because of the great cast, particularly Anthony Hopkins who steals every scene he is in.
However, the whole experience feels like a half measure because the director was scared to show anything truly emotional or powerful. It's as if he couldn't decide whether to portray a tender relationship between a the boy and his grandfather, give an audience a lesson on morality or demonstrate the importance of achieving success in life. As a result, the movie falls flat and ends without leaving any sort of impression, inspiration or emotional aftertaste.
Movieswithoutshmovies on Instagram for honest movie and TV Show reviews.
I don't understand why I didn't enjoy this film because normally I love these kinds of coming of age stories. Moreover, I watched this primarily for Anthony Hopkins' and as always, he delivered a terrific performance which should have sealed the deal and yet, it didn't. The director's intention is clearly there but when all the elements come together, the experience feels watered down as the film fails to have a clear focus.
Armageddon Time is a story a young boy who lives with his big family and that's about it. He is a mischievous and to some extent, an entitled brat who seems to only respect his grandfather. The movie tries to make us connect with the boy by showing various adventures and while some moments feel humorous and joyful, they barely make an impact. The sequences with the family are definitely the most enjoyable because of the great cast, particularly Anthony Hopkins who steals every scene he is in.
However, the whole experience feels like a half measure because the director was scared to show anything truly emotional or powerful. It's as if he couldn't decide whether to portray a tender relationship between a the boy and his grandfather, give an audience a lesson on morality or demonstrate the importance of achieving success in life. As a result, the movie falls flat and ends without leaving any sort of impression, inspiration or emotional aftertaste.
Movieswithoutshmovies on Instagram for honest movie and TV Show reviews.
Strangely intimate
paul-387-99963821 July 2023
It's clear from the early scenes this movie is something terribly personal and real to writer and director James Gray. I wouldn't be surprised if this was a story literally from his own life. All the small details about his grandparents at dinner, the relationship between other family members, and the slightly unclear arc of the story - which is exactly how a 12 year old boy would perceive it.
While it's certainly no Oscar contender, it is strangely intimate. It tells a story like it almost doesn't care where it goes, or how you feel about it. It just is. And while that makes it hard for some people to grasp it, it's also the reason it feels so genuine.
While it's certainly no Oscar contender, it is strangely intimate. It tells a story like it almost doesn't care where it goes, or how you feel about it. It just is. And while that makes it hard for some people to grasp it, it's also the reason it feels so genuine.
Not James Gray's best, still good
CarolineFR6915 November 2022
I love James Gray's style, so it was a no brainer to go see his new movie. However I was a bit disappointed by the story. The movie is somehow autobiographic, with similarities to his upbringing, as a Jewish-Ukrainian child living in Queens, New York. His directing style is great as always, and I thought the actors were quite good. The movie follows Paul, an 11-12 year old boy, whose only desire is to become an artist when he grows up, and prefers to make his friends laugh than to be good at school. He befriends an African American boy, Johnny, who is taken as a target by their teacher, and seem not to be able to do anything without getting punished. The story makes a parallel between what this poor boy is living through, and what the Jewish family had to go through because of their religion, changing their name, and ultimately moving country. The movie tries to address racism but fails, basically saying that people need to speak out, without actually doing anything about it, culminating in Johnny stating that even if Paul had said something it wouldn't have changed a thing. The movie finishes with the election of Reagan, and the family disappointment. Not the best of James Gray's movies, but still good in my opinion.
the immigrant experience
josemlopes28 May 2022
James Gray explores opportunity and the immigrant experience in USA, bringing echoes of his earlier work "Little Odessa." Ronald Reagan says in a TV clip: "Do you ever feel that we might be the generation that sees Armageddon?" and we are thrown into the 80s and its dynamics of cruelty and compassion. Strong, so far away from his "Succession" chracter, is brilliant here too.
This is America
AvionPrince1614 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
So yeah we follow a young man and trough him we will see the different perceptions of a kid trough two different systems: public and private school. Its start with a public school with an other young black man with who Paul will get friend with but they will be tested with many difficulties: percpetion to be black in America, the corruption, the family, social classes. And we will see Paul have a different behavior with the private school and heard some bad stuff about Black kids: this is America. The segragation was there so it reflect a certain reality. But Paul will continue to see him despite the warnings of his parents and the differents opinions of people. We will see again some discrimination when they got arrested for the computer. What will saved Paul its his father and his relationship but the black kid will get stuck and still get arrested despite his commit the same crime as Paul. Corruption by business, money, color. Armageddon Time have a pretty simple story and just deliver it with honesty and try to not hide things (the violence of Paul's father, the opinions on black people). I enjoyed also the performance of Anthony Hopkins who give advice to Paul and give ways to act better. A nice movie even if its pretty slow and we are constantly in the POV of a kid who just get older and try to live with the differents problems of society in that time. A nice retranscription and a nice representation of America. Nothing more and nothing less.
A film that fails on every level you can think of
jmccrmck-6517214 November 2022
After reading another negative review here I can't add much to it but this movie 1) full of tropes that did not even carry the story along AND the acting was wooden and the dialogue was strained, it was like watching an elementary school play where the players had never acted a role on stage before and were delivering their lines from a piece of paper or a teleprompter and that wouldn't matter because the script , the writing, is so bad , predictable and cliched. My partner turned to me , about 60 minutes in , and asked what I thought and I was so relieved when she said she was bored and was happy to leave. I have not walked out on a movie since I don't know when and have not rated a movie this low in some time. Anne Hathaway, Anthony Hopkins , both with acceptable performances but don't be fooled , I doubt even they would sit through this movie without walking out.
A coming of Age film that every generation needs too see and understand
moviesfilmsreviewsinc5 January 2023
In "Armageddon Time," people keep trying to wake up 11-year-old Paul Graff (a sensitive performance by Michael Banks Repeta). Paul is a slight, dreamy sixth grader in 1980 Queens, New York. Over the span of two months, from the first day of school until the family watches the returns of the Presidential election in November, we repeatedly see Paul in a deep sleep as various family members try to get him out of bed. His father, Irving (Jeremy Strong), dances in Paul's bedroom. His older brother Ted (Ryan Sell), jumps on his chest. His mother (Anne Hathaway) tells him to get ready for school. The sincerity and good intentions of the movie are palpable, as are its ambitions in bringing in the election of Ronald Reagan and the future prospect of Donald Trump as connected to the difficulties faced by Johnny and the challenges of being a mensch. The film creates a vivid and evocative sense of its time and place and many scenes, especially those with Repeta and Hopkins, are touching. Hathaway as the mother is affectionate, amused, and sometimes indulgent with Paul. The shift as she defends him to the principal and then once they are out of his office, when she can say what she really thinks, is one of the movie's best scenes. And she is deeply affecting when it is clear to us, if not to Paul, that she has had some very sad news. Most troubling is the script's failure to give us a fully realized, authentic character for Johnny. The movie is in large part an apology to Johnny and to all of the other kids like him who were not adequately cared for at home and who were constantly mistreated by all of the people and structures that should have been supporting them. It is heartbreaking to see Johnny insulted by his teacher and by older Black kids who scoff at him for dreaming of working for NASA. Why wouldn't he want to get as far away from this planet as he could? Webb is an affecting young performer, and he says a lot just with his eyes. His face lights up in those few moments when Johnny has a sense of hope and connection. But Johnny's character is underwritten, a collection of attributes more than a personality. He is not given the same interiority we see in other characters and that feels like just another way of letting him down.
there is...
ops-5253522 November 2022
A little lack of depth in this rather slow churning fictitious drama that spins around early 1980's suburbian new york. Its a story about race, rich and poor, family insignias, and life and death in a family of middleclass jews, where the old and settle gnarls on always remember your past, whilst the coming of agers just fantasyses a new gold dream, a dream thats crunched between branding and the elder of the family...
the cast is mighty fine for this kinda roleplay, it has almost got some comedy lacking woody allen over it, but they all shine on the screen. Mr hopkins though is the holy mantrae of this silverscreen picture, how he can avoid speaking gibberish is just a miracle considering his old age.
Its a story about black and white and jews, of which colour i shall not define, it shows how a rich life might be poor though not as black as could be. A recommend from the grumpy old man.
the cast is mighty fine for this kinda roleplay, it has almost got some comedy lacking woody allen over it, but they all shine on the screen. Mr hopkins though is the holy mantrae of this silverscreen picture, how he can avoid speaking gibberish is just a miracle considering his old age.
Its a story about black and white and jews, of which colour i shall not define, it shows how a rich life might be poor though not as black as could be. A recommend from the grumpy old man.
A completely slow and bland film about a spoiled brat who is angry with the world because it doesn't confirm to his standards.
ActionMovieDude23 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
James Gray's latest film, Armageddon Time was literally one of the most frustrating films to watch in my life.
Taking place in NYC decades ago, involves an 11 year old named Paul who attends school, draws all day, smokes weed, gets whipped harshly by his father in the bathtub, then gets sent to a very expensive prep school that is paid for by his hard working parents.
Instead of showing gratitude for the life he has, Paul continues to draw pictures with literally no direction in his life, his parents continue to complain about how unfair life is to working people despite living in a nice house in NYC and making a good living.
Paul has an African American friend who is harshly treated by their teacher and wants to move to Florida.
Paul after being angry with his father, comes up with the incredibly stupid idea of stealing an expensive computer from his prep school after hours.
Now most children would never do anything so stupid, but Paul spends the rest of the movie angry that society doesn't conform to his standards, despite the upper class lifestyle his appliance repairman father gives him.
In the end, Paul and his friend Johnny get busted for the computer theft and Paul lets his friend take the punishment for HIS crime, which is absolutely infuriating to most people.
That's what makes this film so frustrating to watch, it seems that James Grey has an altered since of history. In fact, I highly doubt that Donald Trumps Father, Fred actually went to Pauls' school acting all high and mighty.
No wonder Armageddon Time failed to connect with most audiences, it seems the only person who really enjoyed this film is the director himself and it seems no one else can relate or connect with his story, I wonder why!
Taking place in NYC decades ago, involves an 11 year old named Paul who attends school, draws all day, smokes weed, gets whipped harshly by his father in the bathtub, then gets sent to a very expensive prep school that is paid for by his hard working parents.
Instead of showing gratitude for the life he has, Paul continues to draw pictures with literally no direction in his life, his parents continue to complain about how unfair life is to working people despite living in a nice house in NYC and making a good living.
Paul has an African American friend who is harshly treated by their teacher and wants to move to Florida.
Paul after being angry with his father, comes up with the incredibly stupid idea of stealing an expensive computer from his prep school after hours.
Now most children would never do anything so stupid, but Paul spends the rest of the movie angry that society doesn't conform to his standards, despite the upper class lifestyle his appliance repairman father gives him.
In the end, Paul and his friend Johnny get busted for the computer theft and Paul lets his friend take the punishment for HIS crime, which is absolutely infuriating to most people.
That's what makes this film so frustrating to watch, it seems that James Grey has an altered since of history. In fact, I highly doubt that Donald Trumps Father, Fred actually went to Pauls' school acting all high and mighty.
No wonder Armageddon Time failed to connect with most audiences, it seems the only person who really enjoyed this film is the director himself and it seems no one else can relate or connect with his story, I wonder why!
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