My movie of the day was The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button, based--very loosely--on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and it turned out to be one of the most magical experiences of cinematic storytelling I've seen in some time. Essentially Brad Pitt plays a character who was born as an old man and gradually becomes younger through the decades. The arc of his life intersects with that of Cate Blanchett's character, who ages in the, um, more traditional fashion. In many ways this tale is a romance, but it's much more than that. There were moments in this picture reminiscent of Forrest Gump, but I liked Benjamin Button a lot more than the earlier film (which I thought was overrated, frankly). This movie is not without its hokey moments and some dime store philosophizing, but the skill of the filmmakers is evident throughout. The presentation of Brad Pitt's character in his younger days, as a miniature old man, and in his dotage, looking like a teenager, is seamless. Whatever digital wizardry was employed here is very impressive. Pitt brings his "A" game to this role and Blanchett is as radiant as ever. Tilda Swinton also delivers a lovely performance, as always. Don't miss this film.
