Review of Joy (2015) by A Yank A — 25 Jan 2016

I found this feel good flick, uplifting, despite it's minor flaws and setbacks as a movie that unfortunately remained stagnant through out it's duration, but, at a pleasurable level. Very much like an improved take on an Erin Brockovich, with less Julia Roberts(always a good thing), a more upbeat vibe, and less political commentary on ethics.

Yet, the movie never seems to pick up pace, remaining instead in a sort of limbo somewhere in the middle between, 'Great movie!' and, 'Meh. Wasn't the worst I've seen.' Amidst the Soap Opera sequences, an underused narrative by Diane Ladd, and sloppily executed flashbacks, lies, what could have been, an exceptional Biographic based on the true story of inventor and business guru, Joy Mangano, who invented the Miracle Mop and helped usher in the Shopping Network era of cheap knock off jewelry and George Foreman Grills.

Director, David O. Russell, fails to fully utilize the collective acting prowess of this star studded ensemble, which includes Robert De Niro and Bradley Cooper, never fully fleshing out any of the characters except for Jennifer Lawrence's Joy, who even then seems stifled and hindred, never getting the opportunity to fully spread her acting wings.

Yet, Lawrence has come a long way since The Hunger Games franchise first introduced her to the world as she manages to create a very likeable and relatable character that is captivating and whose plight many of us have personally experienced in our lives.

If anything, Joy, has proven Lawrence is indeed a fine actor in the making, with a diverse career ahead of her that goes far beyond cheesy teenage dystopian films. A quite enjoyable and inspiring watch that lacks a bit of 'oomph'.