REVOLUTIONARY ROAD

One of the handful of Oscar films on the list to see before the big date of February 22nd. I went in expecting honestly, the alternate sequel to Titanic. The way is played up it's very much what it seemed to be. With the rekindling of Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet it wasn't hard to guess which audience this film was aiming for. I also went into this film hoping to be taken aback by Kate Winslet's performance.

And I was.

Kate Winslet was definitely the highlight of this film. Though I have not seen much of her work (not even Titanic), I wasn't sure what to expect. I heard very good things about her position in this film and she definitely delievered and extremely strong performance.

REVOLUTIONARY ROAD is about a suburban family (husband/Frank - Leo; wife/April - Kate) living in a small town in Connecticut during the late 50's who are struggling with personal problems, raise their children, and trying their hardest to work together and regain their family structure.

I have despised the film Titanic for the sole reason I am in disbelief that it deserves to be #1 of all time on the National and World-Wide box office. A feat that I don't think will ever be beaten. Because of this I developed a hatred for DiCaprio, and a dislike for Winslet, but that has subsided.
Since his work on BLOOD DIAMOND, DEPARTED, and BODY OF LIES I have become a more positive fan of DiCaprio. But his portrayal in this film was shaken at best. He seemed almost uncomfortable and overly dramatic in parts. It could be the fact that he is being over shadowed by Kate's amazing performance but something about his part in this seemed a bit out there. Also, the talent of Michael Shannon can not be forgotten. An astounding performance by mildly veteran actor. Though I have not really seen much of his past work (Bug, WTC) it's hard to compare this compelling performance to his other work.


The story was, a bit over dramatic at points. A definitely developed idea and saddening plot of an even present day problem; the dysfunction of a family structure. It's always a strong subject to write on, and the ordeals that each partner faces in order to keep their sanity to themselves and each other is passionate. From the opening to the end you can feel that things are not quiet what it seems between the couple, and you can't help but hope for a good ending for them.

The old like style of the cinematography definitely gives power to the plot and setting. The way the camera is held throughout on the couple it definitely gives a sort of inner fill of the emotional struggle each deals with, and harsh choices they are making.

Overall, an ok movie. Though I wasn't taken aback from the story or characters, it was definitely Kate Winslet (I felt) that kept this movie going. Leonardo DiCaprio has a soft performance, but I think it could of been done better; because he's done it. If you are a fan of Winslet, or of Oscar worthy actress I'd say watch it. Otherwise, catch it on Netflix, online, tv or whatever.

In the end; 8/10

Next up, Reviews on; CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON, FROST/NIXON, and UNDERWORLD 3