Affleck's Gothic Tale: Secrets, Murder, Wronged Men

Casey Affleck's third film as a director, 'Company,' unfolds as a gothic anthology, presenting a series of interconnected, mysterious tales. These stories feature strangers who share narratives centered on murder and the experiences of men who have been wronged.

The anthology's structure allows it to traverse different eras and settings. Narratives shift from the late 1970s to the mid-20th century, and further back to the plague-era in Europe, showcasing a hermit pining for his daughter and a volatile farmer.

A central story set in the early 20th-century Rockies involves a farming couple who find a teenage boy with a suspicious past. The boy's unsettling pronouncements and the discovery of local killings cast a shadow over his presence on the farm.

Co-written by Affleck and Ron Hansen, the film explores themes of betrayal and disbelief, drawing parallels to Affleck's own public struggles with sexual harassment accusations. The narratives often focus on men whose claims were not believed by their peers, though at times this veers into self-pity.

Ultimately, 'Company' is described as a diverting, albeit imperfect, exploration of the American Gothic sub-genre. It offers a darkly flavored experience, advising caution regarding strangers and the unseen dangers lurking in the unknown.