Country Strong & Crazy Heart

Earlier this vacation, I was in the mood for a "sob-worthy" chick-flick. As I flicked through the on-demand options, I spotted Country Strong. The plot involves a young singer-songwriter who is romantically involved with a fallen emotionally unstable country star (Gwyneth Paltrow). After a short stint in rehab for alcoholism, her husband and manager (Tim McGraw) brings them both on tour along with an upcoming country singer (Leighton Meester). Between concerts, romantic entanglements and old demons threaten to derail them all. Although this movie didn't get good reviews for its "cliched, disjointed screenplay." I truly enjoyed it due to its emotional roller-coaster vibe, moving melodies and some would suggest overly dramatic outcome.

Moreover, this movie tempted me to re-watch Crazy Heart. I'm sure most of you have seen or heard of it as Jeff Bridges won an Oscar for Best Male Actor in 2010. This movie follows a fairly similar plot where a worn-down country singers spirit is broken from failed marriages, too much time on the road, and too many drunken nights. Bad Blake (Jeff Bridges) is headed down the path of no return. But, when a probing young writer Jean (Maggie Gyllenhaal) digs deep enough to unearth the broken man, Bad realizes that redemption may not be such a long shot after all. What I appreciated about Crazy Heart was its raw and not glamorized representation of a fallen country star, whereas Country Strong would appeal to a bit more superficial crowd I would say. And, what was most stunning was Jeff Bridges interpretation that revealed a man who seemed tough and tremendously troubled, but really just needed to find peace with himself. Even with the presence of drunken disturbing scenes, he winds up being quite charming. I could sense his passion and overall, the movie is honest and heartwarming.

What I really captured and admired in these two movies, was the true hope and opportunity for second chances. Moreover, both movies demonstrate how a single genuine caring person can bring out the best in someone. It brought me back to the idea that personal issues are worst when we face them alone. Other people are necessary, or even so just one person to change you for the better. Although, the road to recovery is never easy if someone new comes along, they can remind us of the beauty in life. And in these cases, through pain and desire, a rise back from fame is possible. I guess I now have a soft spot for love stories mixed with country songs. Overall, I would suggest watching Crazy Heart over Country Strong. The message is more thoroughly inspiring, thought provoking, and well executed. It is also more uplifting in the end.