The American Dream

Rating: 10/10 (26 January 2009)

I usually do not post in forums, comments, etc... but I felt like I needed to after I saw this influential film and the type of feedback it was receiving. The feeling this movie gave me is something I have never felt in my life. Sam Mendes does a wonderful job directing while both he and Justin Haythe adapt this Richard Yates novel into a screenplay... however, the biggest element that shined in this film was the superb acting.
I don't consider myself a movie guru, but I do know a lot about the general aspects that build a powerful film. Revolutionary Road was a complete outlier, as it struck chords I didn't even know I was aware of. I have been married for almost 3 years... I love sociology and I have written papers on American Institutionalism... which this move depicts very well in the 1950s. It was a time of change, a time of conformity, and time of confusion for Americans....
The two main characters in this movie - April (Kate Winslet) and Frank Wheeler (Leo Dicaprio) had a connection that only deep lovers may understand... I know many argue otherwise... but seriously... if both you and your spouse lift yourselves above the 'Marriage' institutionalism ideal... you will begin to realize, that we are both just two humans questioning a sociological constructed ideal called 'Marriage'. The way Mendes depicted this movie was flawless... there were moments I felt completely disconnected with reality and had almost a sense of eeriness watching the couple interact during their ongoing conflict in the film.
The movie probably won't appeal to the masses... but if you are aware of socially constructed ideals and institutionalism, you will find this film hard to forget. I think both actors did a wonderful job... I have never seen such emotional and flawless acting. Leo definitely got snubbed for the Oscars... I never really watch the Oscars, but the fact that he didn't' even get nominated has sincerely frustrated me.
Watch this film. Truly a quality piece that will show you an ongoing battle within every marriage... it is just a matter of how tolerant and willing you are to play 'the game'. I admire the couple for their willingness to be free-spirited and aware of their predicament. Marriage is socially constructed... it is NOT natural... despite the advantages, it just isn't. It is a form of social control delivered by a higher agenda that we may never come to realize.
We still fall victim to love though, and this movie depicts the struggle and realization of this institutionalized cage of marriage and individualism.
10/10