Although I’m a big time fan of Ron Howard/Russell Crowe & I also thoroughly enjoyed the movie, I can’t really pin-point howz this movie different from the likes of “Sea Biscuit” & other ordinary guy beats the invincible kind of movies. The movie does justice to the story & viewer would be easily transported to depression era of USA.
The trials & tribulations of that generation, the ugly difference between the masses & the elite & the love/sacrifice made by parents for their children & many other such varied emotions & experiences have been shown with great delicacy & professionalism. Two scenes in particular that I would like to mention are “the protagonist (Russell Crowe) has to beg in front of colleagues/friends for money” & where “Russell Crowe gives up his meal to his daughter so that at least she doesn’t sleep empty stomach”. The director doesn’t make use of any cheap emotions, melodrama & situation to garner sympathy for his main character. These are the makings of a great drama movie.
Renee Zelleweger does justice to her role, so does Paul Giamatti as best friend for Russell Crowe. There is a high possibility of him getting an Oscar nomination for “Best actor in supporting role”.
To sum it up, a great value for money movie which will take you to a different era & world & once you are back, there will be a feeling of contentment combined with dejavu.