Matt was fantastic! I adored seeing him in what I think is the most realistic role he's been asked to play. Though I would have tore Cal a new one in real life for the way he treated David in the first half, the fact that his harshness was matter-of-fact rather than over-analysed was refreshing. I think Josh did a great job, also - maybe a bit obvious at times, but overall, impressive for his age.

The cinematography was well done. I alternated being impressed and disappointed at the dialogue written, especially Cal's. Too many of the lines seemed too verbally sentimental for his personality... less organic and more set-piece aspiring. I realize a couple of those lines were canon, though, so I get it. Not a fan of the flashbacks.

Oscar-worthy? I need to rewatch to answer that, and I'm sad to say I didn't even think about it. When I think Oscar/Emmy I think Felix, Monroe... Freda. But why not Cal? Subtle roles sometimes take even more skill to do well than over-the-top characters/circumstances. Gives me a good reason to re-rent. :)

I agree with the overtly sentimental lines given to Cal. Almost like he was advocating against hunting in some scenes. The dialog where he says "when the death is in the air a man doesn't want to kill anymore....." (I'm paraphrasing) one example. I could see Matt's lack of commitment to that line & it came across as "acting". Other than that I thought the aspect of a father trying hard, sometimes a bit too hard to want the son to like & appreciate who he is. I loved Cal's very subtle sense of humor relayed so skillfully by Matt. Honestly to me, this is Matt's finest performance. Seeing it the second time I'm even more impressed. The accent, his dialog delivery, the skillful pauses, and esp his laughter. Matt does those subtle things better than any actor I've seen. Btw I got to see it on the big screen in LA. Matt was there (I know!!! sigh) & I got to see him from up close! I have to say seeing Matt in person it's hard to believe he's the same person who played Cal! The transformation & the dedication to his role is astounding.

Wow, you're kidding!! That's fantastic, I'm so happy for you. Tell us more.

I'm not much for approaching the actors and asking for selfies/autographs but I made an exception this time. It was him after all. I was pretty tongue tied but Matt has amazing empathy and a genuine sweetness about him. He told someone to take our picture with my camera lol. Btw Simon was there, very handsome. Matt seemed thinner than he looks in some photos and very nerdy with his glasses, in an awfully cute way. I've never seen an actor with absolutely no airs and I've seen my share of them living near LA. Simon is way better looking in person and seemed very down to earth as well esp for having the most gorgeous man in the world for a husband .

Thank you for sharing this. I'm the same way and I'm not sure I would have went ahead and approached him either but it would be silly not to I guess. I'm so glad it worked out well. Not surprised that he's the real thing personality-wise, but it's great to have it confirmed.