This year at the 89th Academy Awards, actor Casey Affleck won the highly respected award of Best Actor for his performance in the film Manchester by the Sea. Manchester by the Sea, directed by Kenneth Lonergan, stormed the theaters, captivating audiences. The film was a rollercoaster of emotions that left the viewers with tissues in their hand. The film tells the story of an emotionally unstable man who inherits the responsibility of caring for his nephew. Casey Affleck took a somewhat generic role and made it come to life.

Lee Chandler, played by Casey Affleck, returns to his hometown of Manchester after the passing of his brother. Lee is given the responsibility of watching over Patrick– the son of Lee’s late brother. Throughout the duration of the film you watch the relationship between Lee and Patrick unfold through grief, tragedy, and love.

Casey Affleck assumed the role of a depressed middle-age janitor who lived alone in the basement of an apartment complex. Lee Chandler is a quintessential Boston native. The character of Lee Chandler seems at first to be a lazy, unsuccessful, drunk of a man. However, as the film progresses it becomes clear to the audience that Lee Chandler has a deeply seeded story. Casey Affleck took on the challenge of portraying Lee Chandler with ease. Affleck’s performance is flawless and consistent during the film. Casey Affleck is able to fiercely, self discipline his acting to successfully characterize Lee Chandler. Affleck is able to not only capture the Boston attitude and accent but also the deep emotional conflict that his character faces. Affleck’s’ hard work and dedication to his role granted him the most respected award– Best Actor at the 89th Academy Awards.

Casey Affleck was up against many other talented actors, such as Ryan Gosling (for his performance in Damien Chazelle’s Lala Land) and Andrew Garfield (for his performance in Hacksaw Ridge, directed by Mel Gibson), at the 89th Academy Awards. But, Affleck was the one who took home the Oscar for his incredible performance as Lee Chandler. This was Casey’s first Oscar, but second nomination. Affleck is no strange to acting; he has been performing in films since 1995. Also, his older brother, Ben Affleck, is also a successful actor assuming many different roles throughout the years. Casey Affleck has worked for many years to achieve this well deserved award.

All in all, the entire cast and crew of Manchester by the Sea created a beautiful ensemble film. Although not the happiest of films recognized in the 89th Academy Awards, it was definitely one of the most memorable thanks to the wonderful performance of Casey Affleck.