By

Captain Fantastic

A thought-provoking must for Viggo fans

 

An alternative-thinking father (Viggo Mortensen, never better) home-schools his six kids (none of whom, astoundingly, is at all annoying) in their forest Eden in the Pacific Northwest. In addition to hunting and rock climbing, he tutors them in classical literature, art and music. They’re capable, independent, smart and well-adjusted.But it is when circumstances make it necessary for them to temporarily venture outside their own world that the sharp cultural observations begin. With heart, humor and intelligence, the film raises questions about the world we live in and what constitutes responsible parenting. Despite a kind of cop-out, too-tidy denouement, this gorgeously shot film is wise, politically articulate and even meaningful. One that will stay with you. (118 min)