Ben Cash (Viggo), ironically named as he mocks capitalism or daftly named after the musical outlaw, Johnny, is our partially reluctant yet somewhat eager protagonist. And he absolutely prevails with humor, attitude and humility.

Early in the film, the camera zooms away to show Ben with all six kids stuck to the side of an enormous rock face. This one frame allows brilliant insight into the will he has instilled. He has them reading constantly, running everywhere and challenging everything from themselves to Christmas. And they are awesome and intellectual and well trained in game hunting. However, clever as they may be, they’re raised differently and this notion, when it presents itself, is just as challenging as holding “plank” position.

The message, for me, is that conventional and abstract are a matter of perspective.

The film lacks tacky and overthought justification dialogues, the likes of which would have been truly detrimental. Ben’s ability, through great writing, to not sugarcoat and be extremely forthright is a pillar of the film’s disposition.

With an ending filled with resolution and tribute, Captain Fantastic hops the bus for the Film Clas elite, grabbing 4.8 napkins out of 5, even though they don’t need them.