Review of Man Down

Transcending the frustrating script, Shia LaBeouf emerges as the movie's saving grace. Supplying an Oscar-worthy display, LaBeouf finally reaps the rewards of his fateful 'Transformers' campaign. A sentence as shocking to write as it is to read, the 29-year old star transfers the same wide-eyed, controlled fervor to a damaged man he's clearly spent time molding both physically and mentally. His dedication reaches its peak during the climatic home invasion scene, wherein Gabriel attempts to 'rescue' his son from his own house. At this point we are finally aware of Gabe's condition, but observing LaBeouf's unwavering devotion in the way he strangles a SWAT officer and seeks cover in his own kitchen – moving with dazed familiarity, is made that much more saddening when he hands his terrified son a pack of gummy bears; his favorite food. In my eyes, that final scene is what raised that audience to their feet. If not for any naive prejudices against Shia, and surely not for the script, 'Man Down' deserves a viewing for that sole, heart-wrenching scene alone.

FULL REVIEW HERE: http://indieadam.com/2015/09/22/man-down-review-indieadam-tiff- 2015/