Silver Linings Playbook

While 2012 maybe gone, the films of 2012 are preparing for the Oscars next month. One such film is Silver Linings Playbook, a film quite more enjoyable than the usual Oscar type by a touchdown.

Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper), who has bipolar disorder, has just been released from a mental hospital. After having nearly murdered his estranged wife, Nikki's, lover, Pat now has a restraining order against him. Despite that, Pat decides to do everything to find the Silver Lining in his cloudy life. Even if it means reading depressing works such as A Farewell to Arms.

One day, Pat meets the recently bereaved Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence). Tiffany offers to help Pat reconnect with Nikki. But first, Pat has to be her partner for a dance competition she's preparing for. Pat agrees and their awkward romance begins.

But there's also Pat's father, Pat Sr. (Robert De Niro) and his obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles. How's Pat going to find time for that?

Originally a novel by Matthew Quick, this crazy story was realized onscreen by writer/director David O. Russell. Its story balances comedy and drama wonderfully because of its endearing characters. Even if some of their actions aren't endearing, they are all people the audience would have no trouble emphasizing with.

As the leads, Cooper and Lawrence are the best of this "crazy" ensemble. Amongst the supporting cast, Chris Tucker and Anupam Kher, as Pat's friend Danny and psychiatrist Dr. Patel, respectively, are great comic relief and moral support. But really, these are just examples of an overwhelmingly excellent ensemble.

As a film about optimism, Silver Linings Playbook doesn't lose sight of its central premise. It's definitely one of the former year's best films and it deserves its place in next month's Oscars.