The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

The curious case of Benjamin Button (Brad Pitt)begins at his birth in New Orleans at the turn of WWI. Rejected and abandoned by his father, Benjamin has all the health problems of an 80 year old at birth. Blinded by cataracts, his small body rife with arthritis, Benjamin is taken in by Queenie (Taraji P. Henson) a black care-giver in an old folks home. Benjamin, born with the mind and body of an old man is aging in reverse. Daisy (Cate Blanchett), the granddaughter of a resident, notices Benjamin during a visit and what a curious case he is.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is going to be a polarizing film. My feeling is that you'll either love or loathe this one. Clocking in at just under three hours, you are investing not only time, but emotion is this beautiful interpretation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novella. Told in a nonlinear fashion {frustrating for some}, the film is told through the journal entries of Benjamin Button and the memories of the ailing Daisy, now in the late stages of life.

David Fincher's task here is monumental. With a screenplay from Eric Roth, director Fincher creates an endearing love story with unusual circumstances. Key to the film's success, is powerful performances from Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. Pitt is amazing and despite being CG'd almost the entire movie, he is fascinating as Button. He moves with understanding of the character; it's amazing to behold. Equally stunning is Cate Blanchett. Her character, Daisy, is a dancer. Not only is she convincing as a dancer, but Cate ages wonderfully. Her grace and skill are exciting. Julia Ormond, Tilda Swinton, and Jared Harris are among the costars.

You can't help but fall in love with Benjamin. He's an odd sort at every age, but he's progressively getting younger--it's remarkable. The frustration and resignation of Benjamin's circumstances are always looming and beautifully rendered.

{This review is getting no where. My apologies.}

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a study of mortality with powerful performances delivered by all. Told with a beautiful melancholy of the inevitable, this film is masterpiece of love, loss, and life. As I see it, if you're willing, you will be rewarded.