Silver Linings Playbook

Trying ever so hard to make my way through the Oscar Nominees, Col and I decided to check out Silver Linings Playbook following the DUMPING of snow we received on Friday.  Collin had never heard of it, I had been dying to see it...the verdict: we BOTH loved it!

If you haven't seen David O. Russell's much buzzed about film, the story centers around Pat (Bradley Cooper), following a stay in a mental institution and his quest to win back the love of his life.  Sounds like a chick flick right? Wrong. The majority of the movie revolved around Pat's illness and how it impacted his relationships with everyone in his life.  Pat's lack of filter was as refreshing as it was startling, which made me reflect on what the world would be like if everyone behaved in such a way.  Although I think there is a definite time and place for thinking before you speak, saying whatever comes to mind allows for a type of honesty that is rarely seen in a world were political correctness is the rule.  The charm of this movie lies in the authenticity and realness in it's portrayal of mental illness and how it can affect someone's life so greatly.

Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper practicing the big number

The simple story line is driven by the fantastic and genuine acting by Cooper and Lawrence (who totally stole the show for me).  If it's even possible, this film made me love the actress even more (if you don't love her, just watch her interviews, she's wickedly funny).  Her role as a young widow dealing with her new reality is gritty, comical, and heartwarming. Honourable mention goes out to De Niro, who perfectly played Pat's OCD, football maniac father.   

If I say anything more, I've said too much.  All in all, if you're on the fence about seeing this movie, go check it out. You won't be disappointed.

pic via screencrush.com

It's the weekend!

So the weekend is finally upon us, and in this busy time of year, it seems to be difficult to find time to just chill.  So last night the boy and I decided to go catch the new flick LIFE OF PI downtown and unwind.  We'd heard it was "A visual masterpiece" (thanks movie poster), and decided it worthy of our $15 (for 3D of course). When 3D first came out, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame, as the inner child in me was super excited to wear the 3D glasses.  Over the years, it has kind of lost its magic on me, as it seems every movie with even a lick of action is released in this format.  We decided that we would splurge a bit on LIFE OF PI, just to see if it could make me appreciate the art of 3D again.  And you know what? It did, to an extent.  Although most of the movie was using 3D to show depth, there were a few parts where they succeeded on the "WOAH! THAT WAS AWESOME!!!" factor. You know, the moment when something pops right out of the screen and blows you away type of 3D that makes the annoying glasses all worth it.

 
As for the movie, having not read the book prior to viewing (which I prefer to do), I found it very visually appealing and entertaining for the most part.  At times I found the story kind of slow, however, the effects, gorgeous scenery, and exotic animals made up for it (I'm a sucker for anything nature related).  I believe it was the shear passion of the main character that ultimately made the film for me...and the ending sentiments by said character (which I will not spoil!). If you're looking for some time away from the hecticness of the holiday season, I recommend going to see LIFE OF PI/  If nothing else, it allows for some downtime to appreciate the beauty of nature and the strength of the human spirit.