Review of The Bridges of Madison County (1995) by Max B — 26 Aug 2012

It must have been a bit of surprise back in 1995 to hear that Clint Eastwood was going to direct and star in a soppy romance movie. It must have been an even bigger surprise to discover that it was actually really good. The Bridges of Madison County was based on a bestselling novel of the same name, and was one of the few times where the book wasn't as good as the movie. While popular, most agreed that it had stale dialogue and wasn't well written. What Eastwood was able to do with the film, given the source material, is quite remarkable. But most of the credit must be given to Meryl Streep's performance and the chemistry that she and Eastwood share. Though the film felt slow at times, it told a touching tale with some interesting storytelling mechanics. As far as schmaltzy chick flicks go, this is one of the best.

To begin, the movie is essentially carried by two people; Eastwood and Streep. They get the most screen time by a wide margin, and are among a main cast of about five people. Both actors are outstanding here, but the real standout performance belongs to Streep. She embodies the character of Francesca, an Italian, middle-aged housewife living in Iowa, and breathes such richness and complexity into the role that you forget it's even an act. And it's not at all a flamboyant, dramatic performance; rather, most of its realistic quality comes from faint expressions and subtle mannerisms, and a clear sense of yearning for a new life, away from dull, Iowan family routine. Meryl Streep was nominated for an Oscar for this performance (as usual), which should lend some credence to my claims if nothing else.

Streep's costar and director Clint Eastwood may have been slightly overshadowed by her presence, but that doesn't take anything away from his also-excellent performance. Considering Eastwood's usual movie roles, a sensitive and literate photographer for National Geographic seems like a bit of a stretch. That's why it was so startling to see how very good at it he was, breaking away from his comfort zone and tough guy typecasting. His Robert Kincaid radiated with warmth and tenderness, yet still felt powerful and masculine at the same time. The chemistry that he and Streep have is amazing, and it's fascinating to watch them slowly fall in love with each other throughout the film.

What makes the story more remarkable and ultimately more poignant, however, is the ending. It's not even a spoiler to talk about it, since it is actually revealed in the opening scene. The film starts with both of the lead characters dead, the knowledge that Francesca and Robert never ended up together, and Francesca's children, now adults, going through their mother's written account of the story. Knowing this before we are even introduced to their characters is a unique way to watch their love story unfold, and makes their journey throughout the film resonate with you so much more. The movie is also cut with scenes of Francesca's children reacting to this story, as they go from disgust at their mother's affair to understanding and even life-altering revelation. Though these scenes are done fairly well, they are admittedly unnecessary and completely forgettable in light of the overarching love story. The film is also a bit overlong, and some scenes, while engaging, do tend to drag.

In the end, The Bridges of Madison County proves itself a capable and moving love story that keeps the viewer emotionally invested right to the end. Though there are some flaws, the good far outweighs the bad, and I give the film 8 out of 10 stars.