Review of Blue Valentine (2010) by Rory R — 05 Sep 2012

You have to understand the situation in order to really appreciate this film. I really like the contrast between the characters moments of love and their moments of bitterness. By shifting from one to the other, it gives us a better understanding of how bad their relationship is, but also how in love they are.

There is no question behind the strength of their love during their first weeks together and for Dean (Ryan Gosling) to accept joining Cindy (Michelle Williams) in an unplanned pregnancy that will change their lives significantly, it really illustrates his true commitment and love.

Ryan Gosling's character is extremely likeable, not only his great humour, but the amount of denial he has over the slow death of his relationship; he show's such a genuine effort in making the relationship work.

The real mystery is Cindy, we see constant signs of affection and effort from Dean, but she seems emotionally distant, but for what reasons? Her career may have taken a path in the wrong direction, or she has a husband who isn't working at his potential, what is clear is that she is unhappy.

As the film progresses we also get an element of hope after seeing their envious love when they are young. All in all, it was a greatly shot film with a really interesting style of story telling. It will leave anybody who can relate to this film an emotional wreck, but the fun lines from Gosling diffuses it slightly.