'Sometimes We're On a Collision Course, and We Just Don't Know It'

Rating: Null/10 (9 March 2009)

'The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button' is unlike anything of David Fincher's previous works. It was an entirely different experience from watching his previous works like 'Fight Club', 'The Game' and 'Alien3' which had more energy and adrenaline. It is a more 'mature' movie in comparison.
Fincher is known for being a very stylistic director but here he uses a gentler tone that is rather subtle and quiet. The art direction is simply amazing. Fincher uses a sepia lighting that takes one back in time and adds to the nostalgia (this especially contrasts well with the modern day hospital scenes that use a cold lighting). The makeup department does a splendid job by disguising Pitt and Blanchett and physically demonstrating the aging of their characters. The camera-work is equally wonderful. Editing is sharp. The gentle soundtrack is lovely and flows beautifully with the story.
Fincher beautifully tells the story about the life of Benjamin Button. The story mainly revolves around Benjamin Button's curious case of aging backwards but what I liked most about it was his complex love story with Daisy followed by Queenie's motherly devotion towards him. The remarkable dialogues are poetic and philosophical.
I have always thought of Brad Pitt as an average actor overall. But there have been a few movies where he nailed the part and 'The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button' is one such example. Though many would argue that Pitt doesn't 'act' much in the movie because he's quiet, who says that acting has to be loud or even vocal? If anything, this movie shows Pitt growing as an actor and he is very able to successfully downplay roles that demand to be played with subtlety. Cate Blanchett is incredibly beautiful and is phenomenal as the vibrant Daisy. Taraji Henson is lovely and adorable as Benjamin's mother who loves him unconditionally. This actress delivers a spirited performance and she's a scene stealer. Jason Flemyng, Julia Ormond and Tilda Swinton shine in their roles.
'The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button' was a unique experience because of its treatment of the material. The story itself is derived of a novel concept but it is Fincher's presentation and treatment that makes it one of a kind and hooks the viewer from start to finish. Above all, this is his accomplishment.