An Oscar worthy performance backed by good music

Rating: 8/10 (14 December 2010)

This film draws comparisons with The Wrestler. I give both an 8/10. As both a fan of country music and pro wrestling, I feel Bridges takes to the music better than Rourke to the wrestling. He is completely convincing as Bad Blake. Robert Duvall is perfectly cast. I was a bit alarmed to see Colin Farrell, who did a fine job, I must admit. As did Maggie Gyllenhaal.
Little Buddy's disappearing act could have worked on most any sensible guardian, whatever the establishment. I'm not sold on the negligence. It was a little irritating to see Gyllenhaal's Jean giving it to Bad over this. But that's a minor complaint. Jeff Bridges hits it right out of the park. I want to see more from director/writer Scott Cooper.