Crazy Heart

Crazy Heart was released in Canada on January 15, 2010. It features Jeff Bridges, Maggi Gyllenhaal, Colin Farrell and Robert Duvall.

Crazy Heart is the story of a washed up, alcoholic country music singer, who is living from gig to gig. His relationship with a small town journalist inspires him to reflect upon his life and make adjustments to make the most of what's left of it.

Oscar nominations are clearly forthcoming for this film. Jeff Bridges delivers the performance of a lifetime, and he's not even hard on the ears for the most part. He has already won the Golden Globe and the SAG, and will definitely be nominated in the Best Actor category. Only two factors may distract from him winning, in my view. The first factor is the resemblance to Mickey Rourke's performance in The Wrestler just last year. The second factor is the certain nomination for George Clooney in this category, who has been snubbed in previous years and may get a payback vote. Bridges is better overall, but the Academy operates by a funny set of rules sometimes. Gyllenhaal is also very good in her supporting role, but will be on the bubble for a nomination. The other sure bet nomination is for the music, and The Weary Kind should get a nod for Best Song.

Crazy Heart is a great tale, told with both humor and an adequate quantity of heart-warming. Even if you loathe country music, this is an enjoyable movie... and it is a sure bet for some Academy love. I can't go wrong in recommending this one.