I very much want to like David O. Russell’s Silver Linings Playbook, but I can’t help but feel that there’s one element that brings the whole film down, and that’s the performance given by Jennifer Lawrence. Though the film itself is quite skillfully crafted, the miscasting of such a vital character knocks the whole thing askew, preventing it from making a real impact.
The film stars Bradley Cooper as “Pat Solitano,” whose bipolar disorder and brutal act of violence against his wife’s lover has him institutionalized. When he is released, he moves back in with his parents (Robert DeNiro and Jacki Weaver), and he is determined to rebuild his life and save his marriage. When he meets “Tiffany” (Lawrence), a young widow with troubles of her own who offers to help him reconnect with his wife, he finds himself forming an unexpected bond that will take his life in a new direction.
Russell’s particular style takes a bit of getting used to, what with his penchant for quick jerks of the camera and slightly odd angle shifts. However, once you’ve adjusted, it becomes apparent that he’s done something really wonderful here. Despite the fact that the film is essentially a romantic comedy, Russell brings a gritty realism that brings the story down to earth, exposing all of his characters’ flaws and fears.
Bradley is wonderful as Pat, shooting from one emotion to the next with astonishing clarity, and most of the rest of the cast – particularly DeNiro and Weaver – are excellent. The only trouble spot is Lawrence. While she’s not necessarily bad, she is entirely too young for the role, and she lacks the depth required to fill such a complex character. An older, more seasoned actress – Rebecca Hall, say, or Emily Blunt – would have given the role much more impact.
All in all, Silver Linings Playbook is too good to miss, but Lawrence sticks out like a sore thumb. I recommend the film, but with reservations.
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