Review of Revolutionary Road (2008) by Maggiy E — 14 Dec 2010

Time and time again critics have talked about what a brilliant actor Leonardo DiCaprio was but I never really believed them. Sure he'd been in films that were good, great even (The Aviator, Blood Diamond, etc.) and even turned in some solid performances but DiCaprio never really wowed me as an actor. That was however before this film. Here DiCaprio takes his character and does things I never thought him capable of as an actor. For the first time ever he fully embodies his character and thanks to a great script (based off of what I'm sure is a great novel as well) is able to take us through many different emotions. This is also no doubt benefited by the fact he's starring the film opposite one of today's most brilliant actresses, Kate Winslet.

As for the film itself, its a beautiful and haunting indictment of the American dream circa 1950. Not unlike Sam Mendes' other suburban masterpiece American Beauty was towards those same things in the 1990s. Also, worth noting is a strong supporting turn by Kathy Bates who does well with limited screentime. Michael Shannon is impressive in his three scenes which he nearly manages to steal from the two more well know leads. It is ironic however that in a scene where Shannon and DiCaprio are given almost all the dialogue Winslet does some of the best acting in the film by just sitting there and using her face, showing that even in the silent moments a brilliant actress can preform brilliantly. I couldn't consciously give this film the full five star rating because while it was a great film I can't say it was completely enjoyable. It's emotionally brutal and its doubtful you'll be leaving the theater with a smile on your face. That said, Revolutionary Road is a triumph for all involved and one of the best acted most powerful films of 2008.