Assignment 11- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Write a critical review of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button directed by David Fincher.

Here is a sample review that I wrote after I saw this film in the theater.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button written 12-29-08

Simply stated, I loved this movie. It was flawless in its complexity. It had so many beautiful facets to it. The acting was spot on. The story was very interesting. The set design and the whole visual feel were brilliant. But, the aspect of this movie that stood out most in its excellence was the make up/special effects used to show the same actor at different ages.

The main story involves the title character, Benjamin Button, from birth to death. A span of about 85 years. This is not a summer blockbuster type movie with tons of action and special effects, although it does have some action and excellent special effects. This is a long epic drama. So, if you're in the mood for a light hearted 100 minute movie, then you will be disappointed.

Director David Fincher has crafted a beautifully told story of this very unique character played superbly by Brad Pitt. Pitt's Benjamin Button was born as an infant with the physical characteristics of a very old man (balding hair, wrinkled skin, eye cataracts, arthritis, etc.). As each day passes his body gets larger as he grows as any child does, but his body also gets younger. For example, at 7 years old he looks like an 80 year old man who was shrunk down to the size of a 7 year old. At 17 he looks like a 70 year old and so on. This movie chronicles his life told in flashbacks read by Julia Ormond from Button's diary.

Every actor was solid in every performance. Taraji P Henson played Benjamin's adopted mother with depth and passion. Jared Harris was funny and likable as Captain Mike. Tilda Swinton was enjoyable as Benjamin's short time "girlfriend." Cate Blanchett was beautiful and riveting as Benjamin's love. 

I can't say enough about how good this movie is. The look of this movie alone is enough to see it. The cinematographer, set designers, visual effects workers and the director have created a visually stunning work of art. The story is very emotional and dramatic. I can confidently say that I wasn't the only one walking out of the theater after tears had streamed down my cheeks.

All this being said, if you are not a fan of long dramas or are not emotionally deep enough to connect with characters that don't wear costumes or shoot guns then this might not be the movie for you. To fans of film in all its genres this is a movie not to miss. Who knows what films the Oscars will acknowledge and for what, but it would be a crime if at least a few nominations aren't given to The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.