I have found, over the years, that our taste are quite similar. This is one of the rare case where it's totally opposite, I can't stand this movie haha.
Which aspects don't you like about it?
Can you give me more details about why you like the film or direct me toward a review you already made of it?
Superficially I'm obviously attracted to the film's stunning beauty and magnificent handling of its 1940s/1950s time period. It's one of the most gorgeously immerging films ever made in that respect, in my opinion. On a visual level, I don't think many people would disagree when I say it's one of the most beautiful pieces of cinema ever made. The framing and pace of the subsequent shots combined with the often times magical camerawork is simply unforgettable. I find myself needing to revisit certain scenes because I'm craving for their cinematic brilliance.
The film is also able to portray the romantic quality of a cult while aptly criticizing its inner workings as well. We get to perceive things from the side of the cult leader and the side of the broken man who (temporarily) finds his home inside the cult's family. I don't think the two characters could've been done better. They're interesting, mysterious and both performances (by Hoffman and Phoenix) are of an astonishingly high quality. Amy Adams's character and all the others also have those same qualities. The mystery surrounding all of them perfectly fits the theme of the film.
I also love the blend of humor and drama/tragedy. Like in most of PTA's films, this blend is perfectly executed in
The Master. Most of the brilliant scenes can be interpreted as beautifully dramatic and tragic, while at the same time being absurdly hilarious. The humor is revealing and the drama is appropriately measured. Not many writers and directors can hold this balance. Kubrick is the perfect example of a director who who was brilliant at this. I think PTA is probably one of the only filmmakers who approaches him in this respect.
Also, rewatching the film over and over again makes me understand the context, the characters, etc. just a little more every single time. There's so much stuff hidden in the corners of this beautiful masterpiece. It's one of the most valuable cinematic treasures I've ever come across. Every rewatch convinces me of this, as I always find small new things that make me appreciate the whole film in a new light.