2010: The Year in Film - Crazy Heart review

I decided around New Years' that I was going to blog an individual review of every film I saw in the theater in 2010. Now, I didn't realize that I was going to be single and lazy in 2010 and thus not see any films for almost a month when I made this decision, but the decision was be made, nonetheless. For the most part, I'll try to keep these reviews spoiler-free and comment merely on the merits of said film without ruining it for those of you who may be interested in seeing said film.

CRAZY HEART

What is it about the soul of an artist that creates such vicious demons? Why is it that those who bring true beauty into the world so often walk themselves and those close to them through hell? Jeff Bridges is one of the most eclectic and talented actors working today... he's generally known for melting into his characters, allowing himself to become the person he's playing, rather than making the character a piece of himself like many other actors of his generation. This kind of subtlety can lead to an actor being under-appreciated, and this is certainly true of Mr. Bridges.. until now. There is no way in hell this isn't the performance of the year. Jeff Bridges IS Bad Blake, 57 year old former country star who continues trading his fading star across the American southwest.. whether he's running to, or from, his demons, only Bad truly knows. These demons are not insignificant, as there's a ruined career, alcoholism, chain smoking and multiple ruined marriages in his wake. In the hands of a lesser star, this film would have degenerated to Hallmark movie level in about 20 minutes, but the film in Bridges' capable hands thrives and becomes so much more than a simple morality tale.

It turns out Mr. Bridges is a talented musician as well, if not virtuoso, he's indeed soulful, with an earthy, more than believable approach to classic country. "Bad" Blake is the kind of man whose demons have pushed him to the very edge.. and it's a testament to Bridges' talent that he brings charm and humor to a character who very easily could have been a despicable bastard. Bad finds himself in an unlikely relationship with music reporter Jean Craddock (perfectly portrayed by Maggie Gyllenhall) and her four year old son, Bud.. and finds that this relationship offers him the opportunity to change what's been so wrong about his life for so long. The other defining relationship in Bad's life is with his former protegee, Tommy Sweet (played expertly, shockingly, by Colin Farrell), who has achieved superstar status while Bad drives a '79 Silverado from dive bar to dive bar for gigs in front of 30 people. Is it reminiscent of 'The Wrestler'? Sure.. but Bad's story has a lot to offer on it's own accord - how we can reinvent and rediscover ourselves despite what we've done and who we've been - and there's something crucial about that.
The direction is more than adequate, and the cinematography is great at points, featuring some breathtaking views of the American southwest, but make no mistake about it, this film is about the characters and the actors involved. None more so than Jeff Bridges, who turns in the performance of his career and one of the more memorable ones in years. There are many outstanding scenes featuring no one but Bridges, his guitar, and his bottle, all of which tell you more about Bad Blake the man than any dialogue ever could.

While not a classic, by any means, this film is more than solid, and features one of the finest actors working today at his very best. All in all, more than worth your time... particularly if you have any interest in classic country/blues at all... if Bridges doesn't win Oscar this time around it'll be a damn shame.

8/10