A film like Silver Linings Playbook presents perfectly the age old dilemma about film. Should film be good because it is entertaining, or because it has artistic value. Whereas in most cases entertainment value is inextricably intertwined with artistry, In silver Linings playbook, the two are distinctly bifurcated. The truth is that I enjoyed Silver Linings, but not because it is an easy or particularly exciting watch. The film is very dour, filmed very conventionally, and much Too slow, too tepid for my liking. It deals with a difficult subject matter unconventionally- whereas the film is never overtly unflinching in its portrayal of mental illness, there is always an uneasy tension between the central characters which permeates most of the film. The result is a movie that is largely humourless and very messy. I also find fault with the screenplay, which may get banal, and does not offer me new insights into the world of mental illness. For a film which is heavy on dialogue, this could be a disappointment. Artistically however, the film is a triumph, due in large part to its outstanding cast. Bradley Cooper , Robert De Niro, and many of the supporting characters like Chris Tucker are all superb. The film also delves into the father-son dynamic between the junior and senior Pat, which is interesting. Then there is Jennifer Lawrence, in a bravura performance which some her the Oscar for Best actress. Her portrayal of the assertive, domineering, but ultimately vulnerable and damaged Tiffany is finely layered, nuanced, and painfully believable. Lawrence is gifted with a deep mellow voice which she uses to great effect, combined with perfectly judged expressions and mannerisms. She is able to convey beautifully well a multitude of expressions- agony, pain, indignation, and of course, bliss, as the film progresses. First rate work from a first rate actress. Lastly, the ending of the film deserves praise. It is simply done but effective in its emotional catharsis- it does not overindulge on flashiness or long drawn suspense, rather opting for a straightforward approach that befits the two hours of film preceding it. It is memorable and a wonderful ending to a meaningful story. But my problem still remains- Silver linings playbook is a difficult film to watch. This is because it is earnestly and realistically portrayed- qualities which are normally good but in this case may sap entertainment value from this movie. It deals with a topic which may not resonate with many people. It is also quite slow in its pacing, very moody, and sometimes explosive. Personally, I like watching films because they make me happy, or make me excited, or make me anxious about what happens next. Which is why is can only admire, but cannot fully enjoy the excellent film which is Silver Linings Playbook.
Review of Silver Linings Playbook
