Vu à la télé allemande, revu sur OK.
Typical quest for meaning and "healing" leading to a curious relationship between follower and "healer, that happens to use a famous sect as template despite having surprisingly little to tell about sects (except maybe the potential semi-honesty of their leaders?). This and the rather dark views of the film (even about the personal story of its hero) don't make for a particularly interesting watch, no matter how well crafted it is if you don't consider the scenario.
Good acting. (As a beast of alcohol and sex, Phoenix isn't pushing his faces as much as he would in other movies. The affected way of talking given to the founder by Seymour Hoffman helps to give the film an old impression.)
Pretty and meticulous period reconstruction (including female pubic hair).
Score: 6/10
Enjoyment: 3/5
Focusing one's attention on its potential allegorical reading might make The Master look more interesting.