Manchester by the Sea

Audiences primarily experience profound sadness and empathy due to Lee Chandler's overwhelming grief and the re-opening of an unspeakable past tragedy. A strong sense of melancholy pervades the film, reflecting the somber tone and the characters' internal struggles. Guilt is a central emotion, deeply tied to Lee's character, while anxiety stems from his inability to cope and the challenges of guardianship. Despite the bleakness, there are subtle undercurrents of familial love and a faint, enduring hope for connection.