Character-driven films are fertile ground for exceptional acting, much of their success dependent on the skills of the players. Even if the script is solid, sloppy performances can easily knock it to the ground. Fortunately, this is not the case of with Blue Valentine, the winning screenplay for the 2006 Chrysler Film project contest. Michelle Williams (nominated for an oscar) and Ryan Gosling are utterly convincing as Cindy and Dean, a couple coming to the end of their matrimonial road. Jumping back-and-forth between the last and first days of their union, the film's non-linear and fractured structure falls in line with the tumultuous times lived through in the final stages of the relationship. The possible confusion caused by the time gaps follows the unclear reason for the couple's termination, which essentially comes down to one of those involved simply falling out of love; a concept as sudden and unexplainable as falling in love. Through Williams and Gosling's bold and honest portrayals of unstable lovers, Blue Valentine aptly explores the irrationality behind romantic politics, a game in which fairness is not always assured.
I know that I said this before, but I think Ryan Gossling did an incredible job and is more award worthy than Michelle Williams. Not to say she didn't do a great job too because she was also incredible, but I feel Ryan was that much better. But maybe I just had a crush on his character. Something about a guy with messy hair and glasses gets me. :)
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