Kenneth Lonergan, through inventive chronology, uses tragedy as an explanation rather than an emotional candlewick. As a result, he controls our sentiments delicately to deliver the wonderful film, Manchester by the Sea.

There is an unapologetic authenticity to movies set in this area. It’s almost as if there is no script, just situations and a freedom to be Bostonian. Lonergan elevates this notion as we quietly sit in the backseat, for example, of the rickety Jeep Cherokee while Lee (Affleck) and Patty (Hedges) argue about the proficiency of the car heater. It’s brilliant.

Throughout the film, Patty presses Lee with wry condescension but the disposition of a pal as they wrangle their way through paperwork, emerging adulthood and understanding. Lee, sunken eyed and fractured, welcomes all sentiments without offering any excuses. Affleck’s performance is beyond full marks and Michelle Williams’ bit part is as poignant and showstopping as you will see.

Somehow, Lonergan folded the slightest humor and a slim resolve into the seemingly chronic despair which is extremely lasting. It is what we walked away with. And that is deserving of high praise as Manchester by the Sea sets sail with an incomparable 4.995 napkins out of 5.