Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
Released on Sun, December 25, 2011
"Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" is a poignant coming-of-age story that explores grief, loss, and the search for connection in the aftermath of tragedy. Set in the wake of the September 11th attacks, the film centers on Oskar Schell, a precocious and eccentric nine-year-old boy struggling to cope with the absence of his father, Thomas, who died in the World Trade Center. Oskar is plagued by anxiety and feels disconnected from the world around him, finding solace in his vivid imagination and elaborate games.
The film's narrative hinges on a discovery Oskar makes a year after his father's passing. He stumbles upon a mysterious key hidden in a vase belonging to his father, sparking within him a sense of purpose and a sliver of hope amidst his overwhelming grief. Believing the key holds a hidden message or a final task left for him by his father, Oskar becomes consumed with the idea of finding the lock that fits it.
Driven by this belief, Oskar embarks on a solitary quest throughout New York City. He systematically searches for the matching lock, driven by the notion that his father wanted him to complete this task even after his death.
His quest becomes a sprawling, city-wide mission as he vows to find the purpose of the key, seeing it as a way to connect with the memory of his beloved father. He diligently documents his encounters, meticulously filling a notebook with notes, sketches, and reflections on his experiences.
As Oskar journeys through the city, he encounters a diverse array of individuals, each with their own stories of loss, resilience, and the search for meaning. These encounters become transformative experiences for Oskar, allowing him to confront his grief, forge unexpected connections, and gain a deeper understanding of the human condition.
"Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close" is a deeply emotional and moving film that explores the complexities of grief, the enduring power of love, and the importance of finding hope in the face of tragedy. Oskar's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to find connection and meaning even in the darkest of times.
Thomas Horn
as Oskar Schell
Viola Davis
as Abby Black
Jeffrey Wright
as William Black
Zoe Caldwell
as Oskaru0027s Grandmother
Max von Sydow
as The Renter