Blue Valentine

Last night I saw the Australian premiere of Blue Valentine, a new film starring Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling. In the film they play married couple Cindy and Dean respectfully. The film crosses through time from the disintegration of their marriage to the beginning of their young relationship. It almost has a conflicting response from the audience seeing how unhappy their marriage is compared to how happy and cute they are together in the beginning of their romance. The audience doesn't really know what they want, whether they want the couple to resolve their differences or to accept that their marriage isn't healthy and divorce.
It could seem like a very cliche story but it is held together by the tremendous talent of the two leads. Both Williams and Gosling are amazing, and their chemistry in the flashbacks is undeniable. What I found most impressive was how Williams could make her character likeable through the flashbacks, when in the opening married scenes of the film she seems cold and heartless.
Their daughter Frankie played by Faith Wladyka only makes matters more intense as the couple determine how they should handle the situation. The little actress is another reason to see the film, her cute and naturalistic performance shines and doesn't fault against the two more experienced leads.
This film is all about the acting, and I bloody expect the two leads to be nominated at the Academy Awards. For a film that runs for two hours time passes by, as our eyes our glued to the screens seeing the very realistic performances of the leads unfold before us. I will warn anyone interested in seeing this film, that there is a somewhat confronting scene present, nothing gory, just very uncomfortable due to Williams realistic performance. Although this may not be everyone's cup of tea, the film is definitely worth seeing for the amazing performances.