Affliction

A former Marine haunted by his past struggles with addiction and trauma as he investigates a crime in his small hometown. The investigation forces him to confront disturbing secrets about his family and community. As the lines between reality and delusion blur, he must battle his inner demons to uncover the truth.

Affliction received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who generally praised Oscar Isaac's performance and Schrader's direction but found the film's narrative at times predictable. Audiences were somewhat divided, with some appreciating the dark, psychological themes and others finding it too bleak.

• Oscar Isaac delivers a powerful and nuanced performance that anchors the film.

• Paul Schrader's signature dark and brooding style is evident throughout.

• The film's exploration of trauma and addiction is compelling, though the plot can feel familiar.

Google audience: Audiences largely appreciated the intense performances and the film's serious thematic content, but some felt the story lacked originality and the overall tone was excessively grim.

Paul Schrader, known for his work on 'Taxi Driver' and 'Raging Bull', directed 'Affliction' as a return to his characteristic explorations of damaged protagonists.