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Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Well.. Isnt it unfair that we dont get to see the oscar nominated movies well after the awards are done and dusted?

Anyways, here's reviewing the second nomination for best film. The curious case of Benjamin Button is a film about a man born old and aging in the reverse order. It is a film more importantly about the agelessness of everlasting love.

Set in the 40s-60s the films look is true to its time - pastal and postcardish. The film is vaguely reminiscent of 3 previous oscar successes. In the flashback narrated by an ailing old woman and her daughter in a hospital, reminds you of Titanic's rose telling her grand-daughter her love story. In the way in which the lead pair (Pitt and Blanchett) meet and depart, there is a 'carrot and peas' feel of Forrest Gump. And, one particular sequence to narrate Kate's accident is almost on the lines of the French Oscar favorite of that year, Amilie.

Having said that, the film does have a soul of its own, thanks to its endearing lead character, Benjamin Button. You begin by sympathising for a baby, born with the looks of a 85 year old, abondoned by his father. Then you see a child trapped in an old mans body, a teenager learning the ways of life still looking like an mid-aged man. At one point, you get jealous of this man who looks like a greek god at the age of 45!! Looks apart, Pitt manages to give the character the right amount of vulnerability, unsure anxiety and romance to make this seemingly long story a great watch.

Cate Blanchett, makes her presence felt with her apt expressions and classic ballet moves. The chemistry in the characters is electric. The romantic scene by the lake is a highlight.

The film is worth a watch for its story, dialogues and performances.

4 Stars

For the record, I thought this film more than Slumdog Millionaire.

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