For what it is, it's well done!

Rating: 8/10 (28 September 2009)

This is not a movie I'd want to see when I'm in a downer mood. I do get the film's message, that marriage can be a struggle for some. Being a single guy who never married, sometimes I wish I'd married and other times I'm glad I didn't. Watching this film I saw what a struggle it can be and back in the 50s divorce was pretty much scorned upon. So many people lived loveless marriages. Many made the best of the situation. Most folks I know seem to have adapted well and make the best of their marriages. To this day I see very few couples holding hands or snuggling up. It seems that marriage isn't what it's cracked up to be for a lot of people or is it that as people age they're less affectionate, at least in public. Revolutionary Road begins with the initial and strong attraction between the principle characters. Was it love or just physical attraction? As the marriage goes on they settle into the "American Dream", a nice house, a well paying but boring job, two little beautiful kids. After the marriage all is well until the monotony moves in. They make plans to move to Paris, kids and all, to fulfill their dreams but then reality hits them and she becomes pregnant. They grow tired of each other and everything gets worse. There are reasons for all of this and they are evident. Sam Mendes has put a beautiful, but very sad story, on screen brilliantly. It takes place in the 1950s and the art direction is fabulous. Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio are superb as is the supporting cast. Thomas Newman's music score is perfection as is Roger Deakins cinematography. I prefer happier, more uplifting films but I must admit that this is a very good film!