An Introspective Journey

Rating: 8/10 (12 January 2009)

Rarely does a film really make a person think about himself, his life, and his philosophies. Some movies simply provide a brief escape from reality -- entertainment and nothing more. Other films raise awareness on issues, or call people to action. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is one of those rare films that can inspire, teach, and entertain and it's one of the best films of this year.
The movie is based on a story by F. Scott Fitzgerald and follows the unique life of Benjamin Button, a man born with the physiology of an old man. As he grows in age, Benjamin's appearance becomes younger -- he is life actually unfolds in reverse. This gives him an interesting perspective on life, allowing him to see the world and the people around him in ways that no one else can.
Benjamin Button is an epic story that takes us through many episodic moments involving the people and the places that surround Benjamin. There are no traditional "bad guys" in the film. No discernible conflict that weaves its way through the story. Just moments. Moments that come and go, but that make lasting impressions upon Benjamin and the audience as well. What it teaches is that life is fleeting, that things change, and that "you never know what's coming for you." Benjamin has to deal with all of these issues. He has to learn that death is part of life. He has to overcome his own disabilities. He has to make tough decisions that affect him and others. The film is deep, philosophical, and moving, and even after the last frame fades away, its themes resonate in the mind.
The movie's look and feel is as grand as its subject matter (and running time too -- nearly 3 hours). The cinematography is rich in color, each tone and palette supporting the needs and moods of a particular scene. Pacing is often a problem in the early stages of the film. Some moments seem too drawn out. Some of the dialog and acting seems too melodramatic. Some of the gags are overdone. However, the last act of the film moves very quickly. Perhaps this was done on purpose, for in real life, time seems to move quicker as we grow older.
Overall, this is a powerful film that will take you on a wide range of emotion and will also take you on a journey of self reflection.
Read more at http://FrameRate.blog.com