Green continues his exploration of pain, simmering rage and guilt in a similar manner to his previous films, Manglehorn and Joe, while gritty cinematography from Sean Bobbitt complements the confrontational approach.
The boldest thing Stronger does is trust enough in Maslany's performance and in the writing of her character to allow Erin to do something that a lesser movie would never even attempt.
Filmmaker David Gordon Green offers up a low-key, deliberately-paced narrative that proves an ideal complement for John Pollono's subdued screenplay...
Jake Gyllenhaal and Tatiana Maslany both deliver top-notch performances in the inspirational Stronger as the film defines what it means to be Boston Strong.
"Stronger" always feels right in the moment, solidified by an outstanding central performance by Gyllenhaal, and some wonderful ensemble work, especially the actors just below the top billing.
There are few actors in their 30s more well-rounded than [Jake] Gyllenhaal right now, as capable of taking on disturbing psychologies in aggressive indies as they are the lead roles in crowd-pleasing tearjerkers.
As a procedural about the work required to come back into one's body after a major physical and psychic trauma, Stronger is surprisingly compelling. It does well by its subject's non-hysterical response to his new life post-injury.
