Curious About “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”
May 14, 2009 by Kimberly · 6 Comments
There are basically two types of movies that we watch in our home – family films and in-home date night movies. The latter picks are always the hardest ones to pick, because my husband and I have different tastes in movies. One movie that we were both curious about was The Curious Case of Benjamin Button , so I accepted The Criterion Collection Blu-ray Disc to review.
The story is odd (hence the word “curious” in the title) because it’s about a backward-aging man. In this adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s story, Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt) is a man who was born in his 80s and continues to grow younger. Daisy (Cate Blanchett) co-stars in the picture as his love interest throughout the various stages of his life. Taraji P. Henson (who plays the role of Queenie) also does a great job as the woman who takes in the old baby (whom she names Benjamin) as her own. This movie raised a lot of different thoughts and questions in my mind, particularly about love and the various stages of life. Most notably, I kept thinking about the question, “Is it better to have loved and lost then never to have loved at all?” I don’t know the answer, but this film made me wonder.
The actors and actresses all did fine jobs, but the thing that stands out about the film the most (to me) is the technology. The special effects – especially the 100% Benjamin Button digital head – are amazing! It’s no surprise to me that the film took home the Academy Awards for visual effects and makeup. The Criterion version of the film also has over three hours of several extras. Director David Fincher (whose style many have compared to Stanley Kubrick) is featured along with cast interviews and behind-the-scenes information on practically every subject including Brad Pitt’s aging and rejuvenation processes. If you like “outside of the ordinary” types of movies, then The Curios Case of Benjamin Button would make a great addition to your film library.
My husband and I talked more about this movie then any other. It was “odd” and very different. The special affects and technology along with photography were all amazing and you were wanting to see it again to catch what we missed because we were trying to follow the story. Which we found lack luster compared to the efforts that went in to make it so visually superior to other films.
we only felt that this movie lacked the intensity or ability to hit home the love beyond any hardship or unusual, unpredicted circumstance. Or what people will go through for the one they love. But, maybe that is because we are married 21 years this month and are going through some huge challenges that usually would tear families apart. So, I could understand that others would really enjoy the story line.
But, I swear, I will want to rent the DVD, since we saw it in the theater. I will want to see all the extra’s etc.
I live in New Orleans, and that DVD sold out here this week. Everyone I know cried their eyes out watching it because we are are still struggling here post-Katrina and that film made it all seem worth while. Brad Pitt may be known around the world for his sexy looks, but here he’s considered somewhat of a hero for making our hometown look as good as we know it is. For the first time in my life I’ve finally seen a New Orleans movie that actually “gets it”. Hometown pride aside, you’re right, it was quite an unusual piece, and reminded me of a cross between Titanic and Forrest Gump. It was so bittersweet, and I probably would have cried my eyes out even if I hadn’t been pregnant when I first saw it.
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This was one of my favorite films of 2008 – I’m glad you enjoyed it! Although many people criticized it for being on the slow side, I didn’t have that reaction at all. The storyline was completely original and compelling, and the movie was so beautifully shot that there was always something interesting to look at as the plot progressed. I think I’ll have to pick up the Criterion disc of this movie – glad to hear there are so many extra features. Thanks for the review!
I loved this movied, I looked forward to coming to theaters and really enjoyed it.
I saw that at the theater and though I had been warned how long it was…the time sped by for me and I absolutely loved it.
I never have seen the movie but I have heard it was kinda sad.