Billed as a comedy/drama, “Captain Fantastic” is a unique view of a family who has adapted an alternative life style. Viggo Mortensen is the father of a family of six children, who live in the wilderness of Washington state. Ben Cash and his wife Leslie have become extremely disillusioned with the American way of life. As a result, they have decided to raise their children in an area where they can co-exist with nature.
When the film opens, Leslie, who suffers from a bi-polar disorder, is being hospitalized in Arizona. Ben Cash continues to home school his children and provide for their physical and mental health as well. When the family receives word that Leslie has taken her life, they decide to make the trip to Leslie’s parents’ home in Arizona where she will be buried.
As they journey from Washington to Arizona in the family bus, we learn more about the family and how fiercely loyal they are to one another. Trouble will ensue when Ben Cash protests to Leslie’s family about their funeral arrangements for their daughter. Conflict and a reevaluation of what’s best for the family will result in a stronger family unit.
As this year ends and film critics announce their picks for the best films of 2016, “Captain Fantastic” is finding its way on to many lists. Viggo Mortensen’s performance is also being talked about as being one of the best of the year.
This is a film with a strong ensemble cast. Quirky yet sincere this film has definitely found a following among movie goers.
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