Bridges: Bad, Boozey and Brilliant

Rating: Null/10 (6 February 2010)

By now nearly everyone has heard that "Crazy Heart" is fueled by the dazzlingly grizzled performance of Jeff Bridges--one that has earned him several nominations including the Oscar. I won't be surprised if he wins because his Bad Blake is not simply a distinctive interpretation of a fading legend, but Bridges also brings a battered romanticism to the role. It could have been a cliché-movie-of-the-week, but instead "Crazy Heart" surprised me with its humor and smart supporting performances.
Maybe other people knew that Colin Farrel could sing, but I didn't. Farrell's Tommy Sweet could have been superficial and smarmy, but instead he demonstrates tremendous tenderness and likability. Sweet lives up to his name and delights as an authentic bright and shiny person. Bad Blake looks especially wizened when he shares a smoke with his former protégé--an important contrast.
Maggie Gyllenhaal brings a smoldering innocence to her portrayal of the small town reporter, Jean. Her attraction to Bad Blake is easy to understand once we see the poet emerge from behind all that smoke and whiskey. She is the reluctant muse who leads to Bad's awakening.
I was happy to see Robert Duvall add his own organic charm as Bad's longtime friend, Wayne. A sober bartender, Wayne is always available when Bad most needs him and it often seems like he is summoned out of the ether like 'on-star'. Duvall's generous performance is especially notable when I recall the similar vehicle, "Tender Mercies".
This was the first weekend that "Crazy Heart" was screened in my area, and I remain jealous of those who got to see it weeks ago, but delighted to finally enjoy today's matinée. Apparently many fans have been paying attention because it's been a long time since I've seen the cinema so full on a Saturday afternoon. I'm sure I'll add this one to my home film library.
(side note to FOBs: I wasn't the only one who giggled when the liquor store owner introduced himself as Bill Wilson. Wry, indeed)