Blue Valentine

RELEASE DATE: 2nd November 2010

 - Ryan Gosling's is brilliant as 'Dean' and certainly worthy of Oscar attention...

Blue Valentine is a bittersweet and harrowing portrayal of the disintegration of a young couples love for one another. The film begins in the family home and alternates between the past and present, highlighting the contrast between a young love blossoming then slowly falling apart. Heart wrenching and wretched, the two main characters, Ryan Gosling as the intense and enigmatic 'Dean' and Michelle Williams 'Cindy', play the unhappy couple.

With such intensity and truth, the two actors performances almost make you feel uncomfortable watching this personal tale unfold. As we discover from progressive flash-backs, this relationship was likely doomed from the beginning with hints from 'Cindy's' parents and Dean himself, that although talented and artistic, this may not be enough to keep Cindy satisfied.

A last ditch attempt at rekindling their love and saving their marriage is initiated by Dean, with disastrous consequences as they spend the night in a cheesy 'Motel of Love'. It's exruciating to watch as one person opens themselves up and the other remains distant and clearly 'out of love'. But don't be dettered from seeing this film because of the last few paragraphs. There are lighter moments in the film during flashbacks to the early days of the relationship, where Dean courts Cindy in an undeniably charming manner, that bring a smile to your face. Michelle Williams and particularly Ryan Gosling, shine in their performances.

http://www.charisse-movierevue.blogspot.com/