Great story based on such a simple concept

Rating: 7/10 (14 June 2009)

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button boasts a very good storyline taking place over near a century with a simple but interesting concept: a man growing younger instead of older. It did not seem long although it lasts almost 3 hours. It did make me think of Forrest Gump, specifically how you see the characters in the historical context although Benjamin doesn't really meet famous people. Cate Blanchett in simply sublime in every possible way as the female lead. So beautiful, gracious and soulful. Brad Pitt in the title role is adequate but sometimes lacks enough emotion to truly relate to the audience.
The directing is sober but very strong with several beautiful cinematographic moments (it did win the academy award for best cinematography and also for visual effects). I would have liked in general if the film had been more melodramatic because it sins by excess of moderation. I would have liked to be moved to the point of tears. The potential was there. It is possible the director David Fincher simply respected the spirit and story of the original novel but I somehow doubt the movie is that faithful. In finishing, was I the only one who was a bit disturbed by the somewhat artificial appearance of Benjamin when he was young (when he resembled an old man)? It's just my opinion and the film did win the academy award for best makeup which is deserved considering how well the aging or de-aging of the characters were done. It's worth buying unless you're allergic to Brad Pitt.
Rating: 8 out of 10