Writer/director David O. Russell's (The Fighter, Three Kings) latest picture tells the story of former Philadelphia schoolteacher Pat Solitano, Jr. (Bradley Cooper) who has just wrapped up an eight-month stint at a Baltimore mental hospital. Upon his return to Philly, Pat moves back in with his parents (Robert De Niro, Jacki Weaver) in an effort to reconcile with his estranged wife. But he gets thrown a curveball by the name of Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), a girl with problems of her own who might just show Pat that no matter how down you are, if you really try, you've always got a shot at a "silver lining".
I've seen a lot of work from stars Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence, but this has gotta be my favorite movie from either of them. Cooper blew me away as Pat. He lives that character, effectively portraying all his quirky mannerisms. SPOILER: It's fascinating to watch the scenes in which Pat becomes involved in conflict, either with his parents or while tailgating at an Eagles game. Cooper makes us believe that Pat is striving to make a change but also makes clear to us that tension is rising within him, and it's only a matter of time before he reaches a breaking point. Seeing that balance play out is what makes Cooper's character so fun to watch and to root for. Very well-written and well-cast by Russell.
And not to sound cliche, but Jennifer Lawrence truly is the girl on fire in 2012. From a star-making role in last Spring's The Hunger Games to receiving awards attention for Silver Linings Playbook, this stunning young woman's had a huge year. As a proud boy of the Bluegrass myself, I've enjoyed seeing the Kentucky native's meteoric rise and have no doubt she'll one day become one of the greatest actresses of our generation. As Tiffany in SLP, Lawrence is a perfect counterbalance to Cooper's Pat. The madness of these two characters is part of what makes this film work. Seeing Pat and Tiffany react to one another is a delight because they aren't perfect. SPOILER: Pat is looking for his perfect "silver lining" with his wife Nikki, but instead finds a new friend in Tiffany, who might not be the "silver lining" he wants, but turns out to be the "silver lining" that's right for him. I know it sounds sappy, but it's an endearing character study that's a blast to watch. Seeing them work also makes me reflect on my own madness. Everyone has their quirks, and this film will remind you that you're not alone. It takes a very down-to-earth approach that I'm certain will resonate with audiences. I actually felt like the Solitanos could be my next-door neighbors. (And to be honest, I wouldn't mind living in the same neighborhood as Jennifer Lawrence!)
The supporting cast also turns in fine work here. The always-talented De Niro is wonderful as Pat Sr., Jacki Weaver is great as Pat's ever-concerned mother Dolores, and Chris Tucker (you remember him, the guy from the Rush Hour films) is a riot as Danny, Pat's friend from the mental hospital.
This movie deserves all the consideration in the world for any awards it may be eligible for. As it stands, Silver Linings Playbook has four Golden Globe nominations including Best Actor for Bradley Cooper, Best Actress for Jennifer Lawrence, Best Screenplay, and Best Motion Picture of the year. It certainly exceeded my expectations to become one of my favorite films of the year, if not for all time. I think Alynda Wheat of People Magazine said it best in her review: "Here's what David O. Russell's fiendishly witty, brash film isn't: boring, safe or willing to let any of us forget a deceptively simple truth: 'When life reaches out... it's a sin if you don't reach back.'" It's a sin to miss this movie, too. Find out if it's playing near you and see it.
4 OF 4 STARS
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