Amazing Performances make up for the shortcomings of the story

Rating: 7/10 (12 December 2013)

If you're looking for a movie that is both hilarious with a meaning, you've come to the right place. This film, starring Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper, centers around two bipolar friends, Tiffany Maxwell and Pat Solitano. Pat is desperate to get back with his estranged wife, Nikki, where Tiffany is widowed after her husband was killed in a traffic accident. They come to a deal where if Pat will join Tiffany in a dance competition, Tiffany will deliver Pat's letters to Nikki.
The movie is superbly acted, which gained Jennifer Lawrence an Oscar win at the age of 22, plus a nomination for Bradley Cooper and Robert DeNiro. The film itself received several other Oscar nominations.
What is great about Silver Linings is that it accurately portrays mental illness without offensive exaggerations that are far too frequent in other programs. The humor and drama are both well balanced.
My only problem with this movie is that I craved more from the plot. It seemed that there should have been more to the story than practicing for a dance competition and winning a bet. However, this issue is easily overlookable, as the actors give a flawless performance.