It Certainly is Beautiful

Rating: 8/10 (12 September 2017)

A Beautiful Mind is directed by Ron Howard and stars Russell Crowe and Jennifer Connelly, and is about the life and career of John Nash, a mathematician who is studying at Princeton. Despite being a somewhat arrogant man, he maintains respect from fellow students and even attracts a women into his life.
However his world comes to a crashing halt when the life he thought he was in no longer exists...
The film is predominantly focused around the subject of mental illness. A topic alien for some, for others it makes the film really hit home. The film does a great job of explaining the basics while leaving out all of the difficult jargon and technical terms. It makes it become a learning experience for viewers.
The chemistry between Russell and Jenifer is outstanding here. They play off each other so well, making a close bond between them develop very quickly and with so much richness. A highlight of this for me is the first date they go on together. Its a beautiful collection of small scenes and for me could of been a vignette standing on its own.
A valuable message is made here. People with mental illness just want to be understood; to not be judged for the things out of their control. It is not their fault, and Alicia could see that in John. I suppose that this can be relatable for everyone and not just mental health sufferers. Accept people's quirks and only see the good in someone.
I do have only a few slight reservations with this film. It isn't a true depiction of who John Nash was a person (Russells character being greatly romanticised), and the time line of events is incorrect at the end.
However these are a few minor nit picks to what was an incredibly heart felt film, that wanted to spread whatever education and awareness it could around a subject people generally find uncomfortable talking about, but in this current time is gaining more a more momentum.
Overall this was a very powerful film and deserved all of the acclaim and awards it received. I urge anyone who is unsure or who hasn't experienced mental illness in some form, to watch it. You may learn something new.