Review of Blue Valentine (2010) by Lauren H — 10 Feb 2013

I found this movie incredibly moving. Both Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling gave fabulously emotive performances. The juxtaposition between their relationship when they first met and then years into their marriage is quite frightening as to how much of the affection had drained out of their marriage.

It was at times, uncomfortable to watch but their dynamic was compelling. This movie does define in many ways their maturity as actors, and conveys especially the raw emotions of Michelle Williams dealing with the loss of Heath Ledger.

The most powerful scene where I found myself literally in tears was after Cindy couldn't go through with the abortion. It defined their relationship as both being pushed together out of lack of choice but also through the power of choice and their choice to become a family.

Cindy says to Dean: "you don't have to do this, its not your fault" and that follows throughout as the theme: Cindy trying to reconcile with her choices. Dean trying to reconcile with his.

Both trying but failing to see the other is also trying in their own way, whether or not they would choose to show their love in that way. It very much leaves you with the feeling that love isn't about settling for somethig just because its the right thing to do.

Its about being passionate and appreciating the other person. Which within their web of marital problems, they couldn't figure out, resolve and rekindle.