Review of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) by Richard B — 11 Sep 2017

This film deserves being categorized as an "epic" by virtue of its scope in story, theme and filmmaking ambition. It's obviously necessary to accept the fanciful aspects of the tale, following a man who is born old and ages in reverse, but it's also a melancholy romance that's very moving.

Love and loss, the inevitability of change, the richness of a life lived fully, and the preciousness of that life-all are within the film's sweeping embrace. Brad Pitt does an excellent job as Benjamin, with good support from Cate Blanchett and Taraji Henson, and an exceptional Tilda Swinton.

The movie is a bit long at almost three hours, and I think it would have benefited from some editing in places, but maybe it needs the length to take us on such an epic journey--an eventful lifetime for Benjamin and his life-long love, Daisy.

The cinematography is lush, artistic and melancholy in mood to support the tone of the entire film. I also applaud the direction of David Fincher, and the music that is mostly subtle and very much in keeping with the mood of many scenes.

It seems like those who are middle age or older might be the most appreciative, but this film is worth viewing by anyone who is an adult with a bit of life experience.