Jeff Bridges plays Bad Blake, a middle-aged, burned-out Country & Western singer who smokes too much and drinks too much. After playing a gig at a bowling alley, Bad meets a young reporter who wants to interview him, played by sexy Maggie Gyllenhaal. You know what happens next: they fall in love. I was reminded of Tender Mercies where Robert Duvall, who appears in this film, played another burned-out Country & Western singer. Crazy Heart is a darker movie. Jeff Bridges will probably win an Oscar for Best Actor for this outstanding performance. GRADE: B+
This is on my list. Bridges is actor I go outta my way to see. And there ain’t many of those.
If Jeff Bridges doesn’t win the Best Actor Oscar for this performance, it will be a crime, David.
I’d be shocked if he doesn’t win, George. And he deserves it.
The Dude abides!
And the competition for Best Actor is weak, Jeff. It was nice to see Ryan Miller be named MVP.
Also reminded me of last year’s THE WRESTLER a bit.
Of course, you’re right, Patti. There are echos of THE WRESTLER and TENDER MERCIES and all those male redemption movies in CRAZY HEART. It’s a familiar formula, but it still has the power to move audiences.
The TENDER MERCIES comparison was apparent even before Duvall showed up (and he is listed as one of the producers). Playing a country singer is a good way to an Oscar anyway (Sissy Spacek for one, Reese Witherspoon for another) or at least a nomination (Joaquin Phoenix).
I loved TENDER MERCIES from its opening scenes, Jeff. Robert Duvall played one of his best roles in that movie! At the time, it was a risk for Duvall to play such a sympathic role after being known for such strong roles as Colonel Kilgore in APOCALYPSE NOW and Bull Meechum in THE GREAT SANTINI. That just goes to show what a great actor Duvall is.
Another tired old guy meets cute young chick who falls for him film. These are SO real life, eh?
If you’re an old guy with money, then yes, it is Real Life, Rick.