Revolutionary Road
Have you been in a relationship ? It's fantastic, and it's not at times. Arguments, fall-outs, good times, bad times. Shared visions and then a total breakdown in communications. Fitting in with the mould that the community and society around us shape. Earning a living in the capitalist world and all the frustrations and joys that may bring. It's not a depressing film, as much as it's a truthful film, and this truth doesn't always make us feel too good.
Revolutionary Road, is a strong and powerful film, which also addresses a subject constantly debated in American society. It's best to look away from reviews unless you want to know what the plot is. I'll not let it slip, don't worry. It's the magic of most films that they take their audience on a journey which they can identify with and then WHAM, out comes the twist, the conflict, the unexpected shift in the story. You kind of see it coming, but nothing prepares you for the experience.
Based in the 1950s, a normal American couple (Kate Winslet and Leonardo Di Caprio), have ideas to go to Paris. He is doing well in his job, but loves the excitement generated by his wife whenever she discusses getting on a ship for Europe. Their children are slowly co-erced into thinking that it will be a great idea and they build up the energy levels around their new future. Their neighbours don't like the idea, and think they have lost the plot, but they are determined.
Richard Yate's novel is brought out nicely on film by Sam Mendes, and is both beautifully shot and nicely complimented by subtle music by Thomas Newman. Mendes and Newman worked together on American Beauty, and it has a similar feel from that perspective. It guides you along and supports the journey with soft piano playing and haunting melodies. I love the shots where every single person on the street and going to the office, wore a hat. A great observation which Mendes plays out to the full. He's not out for a Hollywood ending though, so don't expect to feel good at the end I'm afraid. Great movie, just hate that awful feeling which surfaces an hour or two after watching it. It's likely to win awards as there are some incredible performances and great moviemaking.
Revolutionary Road is out in U.S. cinemas on December 26th.
http://www.revolutionaryroadmovie.com
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