Movie Review: Silver Linings Playbook

A true “dramady,”  Silver Linings Playbook is a testimony that everyone is just a little bit crazy.  The movie begins with Pat (Bradley Cooper) being released from a mental health facility and feeling determined to turn his life around and win back his estranged wife, who has filed a restraining order against him. Surrounded by his eccentric, Philadelphia Eagles obsessed father (Robert De Niro), and concerned mother (Jacki Weaver), Pat tries to regain control of his life.



         Then Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), a 20-something, loud-mouthed widow, enters. When Tiffany offers to deliver a letter to Pat’s estranged wife, in exchange that he practice and participate in a dance contest with her, their dysfunctional friendship is put to the test. 



         Throughout the film, the viewer is confused as to if Pat and Tiffany have overwhelming chemistry, or if their separate issues could be the perfect storm for a disastrous friendship. It was equally perplexing to examine those around Pat handled him. Though Pat is clearly not the only character with some sort of neuroses or issue, everyone is trying to “fix” him.

         The film’s biggest strength can be found in knockout acting performances by the entire main cast. Cooper, Lawrence, De Niro and Weaver certainly earn the numerous accolades they have received thus far in award season. Each delivers flawless comedic timing, intermixed with their heart-wrenching performances of individuals struggling to get by, or in De Niro’s case, yearning to see the Eagles beat the Dallas Cowboys.