Sometimes hard to watch but hypnotic, rewarding drama

Rating: 10/10 (18 May 2010)

I'll try hard not to reveal too much about the plot, but I know I'll slip, so see the film first if endings are of utmost importance to you..
I must admit that the first time I watched Revolutionary Road(RR), I commented to others that I did not find the experience a pleasant one. Thank heavens I did not allow my initial response to a less than typical 'Hollywood ending' to prevent me from giving the film a second screening. Upon reexamination, I have concluded that this is truly one of the most intense, gripping and thought-provoking dramas of the last decade (or beyond).
A second viewing afforded the opportunity to watch, with great interest, the absolutely masterful performances of Winslet and DiCaprio, supported ably by a wonderful cast. With RR, the acting is the key. Of course Sam Mendes' directorial effort showcases these performances and brings Yates' epic novel critiquing 50's suburban life into sharp focus.
The era of the mid 1950's is very well presented in this film, with a great soundtrack, spot-on architecture, sets and costumes. It helps set-up a love/hate relationship with that 'innocent' decade while allowing the story to play out in contrast. Tunes from the film,including another Oscar caliber theme by Thomas Newman and fifties hits like Crying in The Chapel and Count Every Star haunted me for weeks, finally leading to a purchase of the soundtrack. DiCaprio, now a mature actor far from the boyish Jack, is paired again with his accomplished co-star from Titanic, Kate Winslet, in the role of Frank Wheeler. Wheeler and wife April (Winslet) met in the post WWII years, shared dreams of great futures and shared a disdain for typical suburban life before settling, themselves, in suburban Connecticut. What follows is an examination of how differently these two handle leading what they once regarded as dull and generally inferior lives. April is emotional and passionate about her early ideals while Frank seems to have learned to accept 'success' in the white collar world. At times, April seems to hate her spouse for abandoning early shared dreams, while Frank desperately wants to retain April's love and respect. Some emotionally supercharged scenes ensue.
I must mention one co-star in particular. Kathryn Hahn is amazing as Milly Campbell, the Wheelers' next door neighbor and spouse to Shep(David Harbour), Frank's best friend. Both do a tremendous job portraying the typical, happy suburban couple with insecurities and passions restrained in a way unthinkable to April. Hahn is worth watching closely in key scenes where the Wheelers share some unconventional plans to regain their lost goals. Her facial expressions are priceless.
If you appreciate fine acting,intense adult drama played out in harsh reality,RR is for you. Even if you saw it once and reacted negatively to a rather shocking conclusion, watch it again and simply enjoy the professionals who act a true masterpiece. Leo and Kate have never done better.