Review of The Ballad of Jack and Rose (2005) by Raymond L — 25 Mar 2008

The Ballad of Jack & Rose was an indie film released way back in 2005 but I have not seen it until now. First off, let me just say this movie is not for everyone as it deals with an often taboo subject matter, but I urge anyone who is thinking seeing this to keep an open mind.

The story deals with an ex-hippie named Jack (Daniel Day-Lewis) who lives on an island off the east coast of the US with his daughter Rose (Camilla Belle). The place they live in used to be a well established commune where there was no private property; basically free from the reins of capitalism.

However, Jack soon begins to suspect that Rose's love for him may not be of the father-daughter type and invites his girlfriend (Catherine Keener) and her 2 sons to come live him. This, of course, does not sit well with Rose and the conflict that arises makes up the bulk of the film.

Like most dialogue heavy films, you gotta choose the right actors, and here they chose the perfect one with Daniel Day-Lewis. He is absolutely superb as Jack and Camilla Belle shows that she can hold her own against an Oscar winning actor.

Even when she is not speaking, her eyes are full of expression and shows that she's got real talent. The scenery in the film is also pretty amazing and would've been stunning if it were in High Definition.

The ending is also quite sad and you may find it hard to not at least shed a tear, but it is also optimistic. Like I have mentioned before, the subject matter that the film deals with may not be for everyone and may in fact cause them turn the film off altogether.

This film is very well directed and for people who shy away, I say they're being close minded. Overall, I highly recommend this film and yes, there is a lot of talking but it also makes you think about the flaws in our society and what drives people to rebel.

So why you still reading, go watch it now!