If you didn’t look at the credits for this film, it would still be obvious that the filmmaker behind First Reformed has vast experience, unshakeable confidence, and a wealth of talent. Director/writer Paul Schrader may not be a household name, but the movies he’s been involved in are part of a legendary cinematic canon. Among his writing credits are Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and The Last Temptation of Christ. His directorial projects are not as well known, but his entire body of work speaks for itself. And on First Reformed, Mr. Schrader’s instincts result in an often powerful and deeply affecting film about a reverend dealing with a crisis of faith at a small historic church in New York.

The story moves at a deliberate, patient pace, and the cinematography is often static and unyielding, forcing the audience to fully confront and/or embrace the characters and their emotions. It’s strange and poetic that such calm camera work and scene setups can result in feelings of tension and anxiety for the audience. But that’s the genius of the approach that Paul Schrader took with this film.

Ethan Hawke turns in a career highlight of a performance, and is supported by a worthy supporting contribution from Amanda Seyfried. Heck, even Cedric the Entertainer has something to contribute. But Hawke is the star here – it’s a role that seems perfect for him at this stage of his career, and the work that he and Schrader did to form the character’s aura are a major factor in the film’s success. Because while there is much to marvel at with this quietly powerful film, it is not without its issues.

The film attempts to build a case for the ultimate actions of its characters, but the end result doesn’t feel quite earned. It doesn’t feel quite genuine (or plausible). I can’t say too much more without spoiling anything. I could see what they were trying to do throughout the film. But when you get to the seminal moment, something just doesn’t feel right. It doesn’t feel like all the pieces add up correctly.

But this movie has been weighing heavy on my mind today, which is often the mark of potential greatness. There is much to enjoy and contemplate and love about this film. Its ambitions are lofty. And even if it doesn’t reach all those lofty goals, it’s certainly a worthwhile and affecting film that will challenge and delight you.

Actually, “delight” may be too cheery a word for First Reformed.

4 out of 5 stars