With 2013 now here what better way to kick it off then with a trip to the local theater. However with so many high profile films out, what should one waste his time and hard earned money on. This time I decided on a little less known (and that's a bit of a stretch) film that has been generating a lot of buzz "Silver Linings Playbook." I can truly say that this romantic dramety has restored a bit of my faith in modern film story telling.
For those unfamiliar with this film it stars Bradley Cooper as Pat, a man who suffers from bipolar disorder. He was recently released from a mental hospital where he has spent the last 8 months of his life after taking a plea bargain for attacking a man he caught his wife having an affair with. Pat is now living with his mother and father (Robert De Niro) who want nothing more then to see Pat get back on his feet and share in their love of the Philadelphia Eagles. Pat however has his own plans to stay positive and improve himself, which includes his new obsession with his physical fitness, in an attempt to win back his estranged wife. During one of his daily jogs, he meets up with an old friend and is invited over to dinner. This is where we meet Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), a girl suffering from severe depression after her husband was tragically killed. Pat and Tiffany begin an odd friendship when Pat finds out that Tiffany might be able to contact his wife and give her a letter despite the restraining order she has on him. As part of a deal they work out, Tiffany will deliver this letter if Pat agrees to team up with her for a dance competition. As this film continues, we as an audience are shown a brief look into the world of mental illness and the crazy circumstances that bring people together.
This film is getting a lot of Oscar buzz, including a best picture nomination, and I can see why. The story is a huge break from the rut we find ourselves in when most romantic films are made. Bradley Cooper gives one of his best performances. Robert De Niro was amazing, probably the best performance I have seen in the last 10 years. I was also very surprised by Jennifer Lawrence who showed that her acting range is much broader then simply staring in the next teen blockbuster. This film was directed by David O. Russell, who also directed the 2010 film, "The Fighter". If you enjoyed "The Fighter" or any film shot with a bit of an independent film feel to it should feel at home with this films' style.
All in all I have to say if you are looking for a date night movie you might both enjoy, I can recommend nothing better then "Silver Linings Playbook." This movie can speak a little to everyone and show another side of human nature that many do not take the time to talk about. However, even if you wait for the DVD release do yourself a favor and check this one out.
Check out the trailer below:
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