That's Bradley Cooper?

Rating: 8/10 (17 January 2013)

If not for the terrific performances and depth to EACH character in Silver Linings Playbook, this movie would've tanked outside Oprah's OWN cable station.
Okay, yes, the story is very well done, as is the cinematography, music, dialogue, etcetera, but above all else is the wonderful performance by Bradley Cooper and I never thought I would say that. I am not a fan of his; in fact, he was my least favorite character in the Hangover series. But, here, he gives the performance of his career.
Notice how I didn't mention Jennifer Lawrence yet? Oh, of course, she's excellent. But, I expect that out of her. (I have yet to see her critically, and publicly, panned horror film of 2012, so in my mind, so far, that woman can do NO wrong.) Okay, I enjoyed her once again, but again, I already expected great things from her. I was shocked by how well Cooper played the bipolar hero of our story.
Recently released mental patient, Pat (Cooper,) tries to put his life in order by being positive and reclaiming his lost wife at his side. All the while, he's unintentionally testing his elderly parent's (and the police's) patience with his uncontrollable outbreaks and being wooed by the great, and almost equally messed up character of Tiffany (Lawrence.)
At probably too long of a length in running time, you know how this is going to pan out, but it's still suspenseful throughout because of the excellence of acting on the side of Cooper and his raging one moment to calm the next. I don't even know too many people with this problem, and yet, I know this is realism.
In addition to all the greatness I've spoken about, the movie is full of heart, comedy and great strides in performances from everyone involved, including Robert De Niro, Jacki Weaver and yeah, even Chris Tucker. I did love his reoccurring character throughout.
Again, it's a tad bit long, especially since the end, while thoroughly welcomed, is foreseen. Overall, it's absolutely a delight and highly recommended.