Causeway proves my whole theory: Jennifer Lawrence is an excellent actor. Of course, we all kind of know it, especially if you saw her earlier films like Winter’s Bone. But she’s pulls off great work in her bigger pictures like Hunger Games… where she probably doesn’t get enough credit for how much she embodies an intricate but reserved character.

Causeway casts Lawrence as a member of the Army Corps of Engineers whose convoy is hit with an IED in Afghanistan. It starts with her back stateside getting physical and emotional therapy. She wants to redeploy but she has to deal with her scars and fully heal… meanwhile meeting new friends and dealing with family.

Jennifer Lawrence is often at her best when her characters are quiet, thoughtful, and in control of her emotions. She plays it perfectly in this very strong, but also very introspective and un-showy film. She isn’t giving us hysterics or bouts of anger or even PTSD… nor does she show much happiness. In fact, it’s like a bright sunshiney day any time the movie coaxes a smile out of her.

Not a lot “happens” in the film… and I was ok with that. It was just pleasant and emotionally calm to sit with her as she has quiet conversations that often don’t go anywhere overly dramatic. She makes friends and has interesting – and surprising – conversations with family and that’s good enough.

This is a near great film that I wish ended a little stronger. But where it ends is logical and emotionally honest for this character. This is a very good film that reminds us how good Lawrence really is.

Score: 88