SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK

Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper,

Robert de Niro, Jacki Weaver

"Watch for the Signs"

Cinema 2, Shang Cineplex

After a stint in a mental institution, Pat (Bradley Cooper) is released into the custody of his mother. He comes home to reintegrate with his family and his friends.  Soon enough, he starts obsessing about reuniting with his ex wife whose infidelity led to his meltdown.

Along comes Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence) the sister of Pat's friend who has her own mental issues, they seem to gravitate towards each other because of their common factor.  But Pat insists his quest is still on so Tiffany agrees to help him with a condition attached to her promise.

It was interesting to see Bradley Cooper in a role that doesn't have require him to be totally trashed (ehem: The Hangover series).  He was annoying and quite irritating the entire film but that just proves how credible he was in acting out the role.

Jennifer Lawrence as Tiffany was a delightful character despite her own idiosyncrasies. She was authentic, quite sharp witted and able to tame Pat's OCDC tendencies.   Honestly, he was quite a handful.  Her refreshing appearance totally belies her character's dark past.

Pat and Tiffany develop a good friendship. The two have an understanding and admiration for each other. A chemistry  which Pat desperately tries to quash as he doesn't want to lose focus on his quest.   Case in point, he agrees to be tutored in dancing lessons to give in to her condition yet he urges her to be the messenger of his letter to his ex wife.

"Silver Linings Playbook" is a peculiar story with just the right dosage of a quirky romantic comedy.  It is told through sharp dialogue and acted out by a genuinely talented cast.   One look at Robert de Niro's character as Pat, Sr., the obsessed Eagles fan and you will really understand why his son is so inclined.

The heart of the film no doubt belongs to Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence, their charismatic chemistry is the main draw. Their romance proves there is indeed a silver lining behind every dark and turbulent cloud.