PRINTMovie Review: Crazy Heart
COURTESY OF FOX SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES
February 6, 2010 | 9:50 a.m. CST
Part man-meets-woman, part rustic Western, Crazy Heart takes a vivid snapshot into the life of a forgotten country legend. Based on a novel by Thomas Cobb, Bad Blake, played by Jeff Bridges, is a hard-pressed country singer scrounging across the Southwest. Blake plays gigs in small-town bars and bowling alleys while battling alcoholism and a stalled music career. In Santa Fe, Blake runs across Jean Craddock, played by Maggie Gyllenhaal, a young journalist who slowly becomes Blake’s musical muse, but will it be enough to save him from a self-destructive lifestyle?
The character Bad Blake is a melting pot of country legends such as Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings. Even with these big snake-skinned boots to fill, Bridges delivers a career-defining performance, as evidenced by his Academy Award nomination and Golden Globe win for his role.
Related MovieScott Cooper, writer and director, juxtaposes Blake’s shattered life against the serene landscape of the American Southwest. The cinematography is equally stunning throughout this film; from local bars to Interstate motels, there is never a visually stale moment.
While some parts feel generic, Cooper weaves comedy into this musical drama and breaks the mold of the stereotypical love story. Bridges and Gyllenhaal give a fresh, new look to a common love tale.
Crazy Heart captures the arid Southwest countryside through thought-provoking characterization and themes. The cutthroat music industry, substance abuse and family values are only a few themes Cooper incorporates throughout this dynamic film. In-depth characters and Southern-flavored dialogue invest the audience into the life and times of Bad Blake.
Filled with stunning cinematography and emotional drive, Crazy Heart is a landmark in musical drama film. It is no wonder the Academy fell in love with this country rebel.
Vox Rating:
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