Funny without being schmaltzy

Rating: 7/10 (26 May 2013)

Much like P.T. Anderson's The Master, this is a movie I enjoyed, in large part, for the performances. I think Silver Lining Playbook has a very entertaining story to go with it. It didn't feel like another version of a story I'd already heard, and it didn't feel completely predictable. Another movie it reminded me of was Little Miss Sunshine, where a lot of the characters are going through difficult times, but it ends up fun and life-affirming somehow. Jennifer Lawrence and Robert DeNiro were especially great, and I'm glad they both were recognized for it. I think starting with a great script makes a big difference, but the performances were what made me feel it. When Tiffany asks, "You love me?", I actually care if she ends up happy. It's nice when a movie can do that.