Is it overly cynical to decry an amazing picture because the largely happy ending is somewhat clichéd? On my way out of the theatre, someone said that Crazy Heart was “The Wrestler redux, except with country music.” I actually was hoping for an ambiguous ending similar to that film; it would have suited the storyline arc better. It’s not a repeat of The Wrestler, although the protagonists share the characteristics of well-meaning faded stars who are substance abusers and spectacular screw-ups.
This film is perfectly produced. The performances are intense and realistic, the patient direction filled with slow trailing shots and close-ups, the scenery beautiful, and the soundtrack creates a compelling tempo. To me, a film is perfect when every element not only suits but enhances the core themes of the work. In this case, Crazy Heart focuses on a wayward man travelling the road of life, trying to do his best. The symbolism may be like a guitar shot from the Honky Tonk Man but it’s hard to find totally original stories today.
The screenplay is one of the best in the year. For the first third of the film, Jeff Bridges plays Bad Blake, a has-been country music star who wasted his talent and money because of addiction and intransigence. That part of the film is funny and charming, like The Big Lebowski. Then, Jeff Bridges plays a man trying to right past wrongs who is unable to succeed because he cannot let go of his selfish vices. Lastly, Jeff Bridges plays Otis Blake, a man who resolved to get clean and use his talents to the best of his abilities, with a little help from his friends. The final half of the film is a compelling drama.
In New Mexico, Blake meets Jean, a journalist who is a single mother of a four-year old boy. It is a great opportunity for Blake to make up for leaving his own son a quarter century earlier. But he can’t be a family man until he lets go of the whisky. His former protégé Tommy has become a major country music star and wants to get Blake back on track but the mentor doesn’t have the will power to do so until he finally hits rock bottom. Despite my initial qualms about the happy ending, this is what cinema should be: intelligent, moving, and meaningful. ***½