Certainty

When a Broadway show or play comes off the stage and onto the screen, it often loses the magic it once emitted. Doubt is no exception. Although the acting was phenomenal by all those involved, it failed to bring about the imaginative elements the play conjured up. Doubt, in this case, feels like nothing more than a filmed play; a great story but average movie.

John Patrick Shanley, the writer and director, created something to be remembered when writing Doubt and the play will always be at the top of people's lists of greats. The entire time I was in the theater however, I was thinking that this just wasn't a movie. It didn't feel right. The sets, character interaction and everything else about it just screamed stage. This is not to discredit the acting at all however. Hoffman delivered his usual emotionally charged performance. Adams and Streep were at the top of their game as well. Viola Davis will join the ranks of these Oscar nominees with her small but memorable role as Mrs. Miller. All these characters interacted flawlessly to create a very enjoyable show.

Doubt was an OK movie. After seeing the play and watching actors deliver a superb performance, I just can't say this movie was more or even as gripping and entertaining. Doubt will hit a wider audience than a play could, but maybe plays should stay on a stage.