Crazy Heart

In my continuing quest to attempt to see the many many films that were Oscar nominated, I finally saw Crazy Heart. Can I just say that although I was hoping against hope that Colin Firth would sneak it, Jeff Bridges really deserved his best actor Oscar. He completely inhabits his character, 'Bad' Black, an alcoholic country singer who in the twilight of his career is reduced to playing bowling alleys rather than stadiums. Bad Black is interviewed by a young single mother played by Maggie Gyllenhall and they drift into a relationship of sorts.
It's a mature, considered film with no trite Hollywood resolutions. It's almost a downbeat film but I would hesitate to call it depressing. It's realistic but moves gradually towards a hopeful future.
The scene that stayed with me was Bad Blake composing a song on his love interest's bed for the first time in years. She sheds a few tears because everytime she lies down in her bed from that point she'll won't be able to get that song out of her head. It struck me as completely realistic and poignant that she felt wonder at the spontaneous composition combined with sadness that the moment would pass.
The colour palette is warm, veering between the soft blue darkness of bars and the bright yellow sunshine of the highway as Bad Black travels hundreds of miles to get to the next gig. Watching the beautiful American landscape made me want to wear a washed out cotton shirt warmed by the sun with worn blue jeans whilst peering at the horizon through mirrored shades.
The soundtrack is on my wish list, original songs written for the film keep an authentic mood throughout and move from sad reflective to rousing energetic songs depending on the scene.
Overall, I loved the mood I got from Crazy Heart. I now want to base my summer wardrobe around summer dresses, cotton shirts and guitar playing men.
Rx