Written by Guillermo Troncoso

David O. Russell (Three Kings, I Heart Huckabees, The Fighter) writes and directs this impressive comedy-drama starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence.

Cooper plays Pat Solitano, a former teacher who has just moved in with his parents after spending time in a mental institution. His struggle to reunite with his estranged wife is further complicated when he meets Tiffany, a girl that has many problems of her own.

This is a very well made film that is carried by the performances of its two leads. Bradley Cooper fully delivers in a difficult role that asks him to convince on many levels. Pat Solitano is a pathetic and frustrating character but he remains likeable and charismatic throughout. Jennifer Lawrence continues her climb with her impressive turn as a young woman dealing with a recent tragedy in all the wrong ways.

These two troubled characters are ultimately made for each other. Cooper and Lawrence have good chemistry and the film is a joy whenever both of them are sharing the screen.

There’s a great supporting cast too. Robert De Niro and Jacki Weaver are wonderful as his supportive parents. It’s good to see De Niro back in form after so many bland performances.

David O. Russell has written an emotional comedy that is undeniably romantic and dramatic. Mental illness doesn’t often get explored in this fashion.

THE REEL SCORE: 8/10

– G.T.