A film by American Beauty director Sam Mendes, Revolutionary Road tells the story of a young married couple, Frank and April Wheeler, who have recently settled down in a Connecticut suburb in order to raise their two children in the type of picturesque neighborhood they swore they’d never live in. Sadly, however, the couple, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, soon realize that the “American Dream” they sought to attain does not come without its many sacrifices. Set in the late-1950s, the film captures the struggle one faces as they’ve lost sight of the person they once were, and further paints an uncomfortable portrait of America’s middle-class; one which looks past the iconic white picket fence to reveal a world overcrowded with personal longing and missed opportunity.
Appearing in a much-anticipated onscreen reunion, Titanic stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet prove once again that chemistry is an essential element for proper filmmaking. The two truly shine in this film, and further bring a certain relatable layer to their characters. The audience becomes emotionally involved with the film as the young couple struggles to maintain their relationship despite having grown to desire different things out of life. For the first time in recent memory, however, DiCaprio’s performance proved more convincing that of Winslet. A series of scenes in the film are based around arguments to which DiCaprio commits to beautifully, and with well-seasoned skill. Without restraint, DiCaprio transforms into a desperately conflicted man; a man so enraged by his wife he nearly beats her, only to walk away in the end having realized that he is not fighting with her at all, but rather with his own disappointment for their situation. The performance was mature, pleasantly raw, and 100% believable at all times. Winslet, on the other hand, was unable to deliver a performance that would compete with that of DiCaprio’s. While a very skilled actress indeed, Kate Winslet’s inability to master the art of movement limited her performance in the film, and further made for awkward onscreen moments between she and DiCaprio. She has the tendency to plant herself in one place to deliver her dialogue, and rarely responds to the movements of others. This specific quality took away from the potential of the couple’s numerous marital spats featured in the film. Winslet did, however, portray the essence of a regretful housewife quite well in this film. As April Wheeler is forced to “keep house” all day and look after the couple’s children, the audience begins to realize that April, in fact, resents her children and the restraints they have placed on her life. While never said, this quality contributed greatly to the overall uncomfortable tone of the film. Honest in nature, but nevertheless uncomfortable overall. This is definitely not a situation we strive to experience!
The most profound message in the film is delivered during a dinner party scene which takes place at the Wheeler’s home. Their neighbor, Mrs. Givings brings her son whom she introduces as “not well” in the head. While the man is clearly insane, he begins to call out each person in the room for living a life they hate, and further for having become exactly the type of person they despise. In essence, they must now hate themselves. It becomes clear in that moment that the insane man is actually the healthiest person in the room.
Although a stunning film in every sense of the word, the film’s sincere beauty is truly felt as you leave the movie theater. As you reflect on the film’s all too true portrayal of suburban hardships and outdated gender roles, it becomes impossible for one not to question their own direction in life. At what point do we give in and settle down? Does settling down mean we can’t pursue our goals anymore? What constitutes happiness? With that said, this film will deliver (and deliver).
Good way to write about an important scene of the film without giving away too much of the entire movie.
ReplyDeleteThis review is extremely well-written. The one thing that bothered me is that I'm not sure if having the synopsis as the intro works well for the piece. I thought you had some very interesting insights into the acting of the film, especially because I haven't heard of anyone liking the film and not liking Winslet's performance in the film. As another fan of the film, I would say that your review was pretty accurate.
ReplyDeleteThis was a really interesting review. I especially liked your discussion of the acting-it was very specific and helpful in evaluating the film. However, I feel like you may have discussed a little bit too much of the plot.
ReplyDeleteGreat review. Very well written and is almost as good as a professional review. Your opion of the film was formulated to its best. You described the acting precisely as well as true life messages you obtained from the movie. Awesome job.
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