Review of Stronger (2017) by Dawdlingpoet — 25 Nov 2021

I read the book this film is based on, a year or so ago, so I was familiar with the basics of the story, which this film depicts quite well according to my memory. This is an awe inspiring story which is very much shown through the eyes of the man its all about, Jeff Bauman.

It makes it clear how hard it was for him to come to terms with what happened and depicts the emotional journey he embarked on, to accept the publics response etc. I felt Jake Gyllenhaal did well at playing Jeff, seeming someone clearly in mental/emotional pain, following the life changing event that happens at the start of the film to set the context for the rest of it.

He comes across as both vulnerable and stubborn, irritated, angry and lost in different ways, much as I can only imagine Jeff felt in real life (his book is worth a read if your interested). I felt the subject was handled quite well, certainly sensitively and there is an uplifting element to it but it doesn't shy away from showing the less than ideal side of things as well.

I'd say this is a thought provoking drama that is worth a watch, if it interests you, so I would recommend it, yes.