The Fabelmans (2022) Review

Title: The Fabelmans
Year: 2022
Director: Steven Spielberg

Country: US

Language: English

My fascination with cinema has given me a love-hate relationship with the filmography of Steven Spielberg. At times I feel like he's phoning it in; making a picture just to appease his corporate masters (Kingdom of the Crystal Skill). At times I know he is a master of his craft; creating awe inspiring works that deeply affect me (Schindler's List). When Spielberg is at his best it's a sight to behold. The Fabelmans is one of his best.  

Growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, young Sammy Fabelman (Gabriel LaBelle) aspires to become a filmmaker as he reaches adolescence, but soon discovers a shattering family secret.

As autobiographical as Spielberg can get; The Fabelmans is a remarkable self-mythologizing picture that explores Spielbergs' childhood & deep dives into the power of cinema. Film can expose us to harsh truths about ourselves and the world around us. Film can expose our vulnerabilities. It can bring us together or be used purely for escapism.  

The Fablemans is an incredibly well made picture; I'm certain it will be nominated in nearly every technical category at the Oscars. It's a deceptively "normal" film (in the sense that it isn't a visual spectacle like Wakanda Forever) that quietly plucks away at your wall of security. Rarely do we get a picture so touching and mature. 

It's hard to gather words to describe a picture as nuanced as The Fablemans. I was thoroughly impressed & I would certainly re-watch it as there is much I likely might have missed my first viewing. It's a great film. The best film that is currently playing in theatres.