Feel-Good Drama

Rating: 7/10 (1 July 2013)

Silver Linings Playbook
*** (out of 4)
122 mins/15
Cast: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Jacki Weaver, Chris Tucker
Director: David O. Russell
Plot: After spending time in a mental institution, Pat Solitano moves back into his parent's house while he tries to get back together with his wife. He meets Tiffany, a girl with problems of her own, agrees to help him if he enters a dance competition with her.
JJ's Verdict: This would be your average rom-com where it not for brilliant performances from the entire cast. 'Silver Linings Playbook' tells the story of two troublesome adults, Pat who was in a mental institute with bipolar after nearly killing his wife's lover, and Tiffany who, since her husband died, slept with everyone she could.
Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence who have never really played people who have any major problems, fit into their roles superbly. From Cooper's constant positivity and mood swings to Lawrence's trickery and vulnerability, you don't see two actors on the screen; you see Pat and Tiffany. The supporting cast is equally brilliant with Robert De Niro's OCD and football mad Pat Sr. and Jacki Weaver playing the Pats' mother/wife Dolores. The chemistry between the parents is nothing short of brilliant as they try to keep their son from getting too ambitious. Chris Tucker is also very good as Pat's friend whom he met at the institution as is Anupam Kher, Pat's therapist.
Although the film itself feels formulaic, it is amazingly feel-good. To label the film a comedy is a little inappropriate. Despite having funny moments, with the subjects at hand this film is more a drama. But comedy or drama, 'Silver Linings Playbook' leaves you feeling ridiculously happy and satisfied.