Wednesday 16 November 2011

Blu Ray Tuesday #12

The movie: Country Strong

countrystrong

The menu: Chicken Tandoori pizza… guess I’m getting fancy in my old age :)

Let’s preface this review with the fact that I am not a country fan. But I do like those country pop songs that turn up on the radio every now and then. I am not a Gwyneth Paltrow fan. But she is in two of my favourite movies (Sliding Doors and Shakespeare in Love, for those of you playing at home). I am not a fan of the “washed up singer” movie. But I really, really, really liked this movie.

When I went online to find the picture for this review, I couldn’t believe that it was so hated by critics! I thought they loved this kind of movie. But I never listen to those fools anyway. I listened to my friend Jenna who said I would like this movie.

The movie is about Gwyneth Paltrow’s character who is a super famous country star attempting a comeback tour after a very public breakdown and stint in rehab. Like I said, I’m not a fan of the “washed up singer trying for redemption” storyline so thank goodness there was another storyline in the form of her support acts and their relationship with each other and with Gwynnie’s character.

I thought the acting was great, not to mention the plot. Me and the roomies had a fun time trying to come up with the ending, making up several alternate plot lines. Seriously, Hollywood should give us a call some time. The singing was also excellent, as were the songs. As a non-country fan, I really enjoyed the songs and will probably youtube them while I’m doing work today. But also because I am a girl and not blind, my very favourite part was Garrett Hedland and his character.

Country-Strong-1

Yum! Any man that can sing and play guitar and look good in a cowboy hat is alright by me. I think I swooned several times during the movie because his character is so lovely. I need someone who can swoop in and save the day, with guitar in hand. When talking about him, Gwynnie says “He thinks he’s so tough, but I’ve never had a man be so gentle with me”. Excuse me y’all, I’m moving to the country!

Recommended: Yes indeedy!

4 comments:

Danielle said...

I keep getting drawn to this movie (yes, Garrett Hedlund is one of the main reasons why *shame*) but then I read a review and -- wiothout being too spoilery -- it sounded like the singer didn't end up redeemed and it was a really sad ending? And that put me off :(

Jenna said...

I'm SO glad you enjoyed it! Ahhh Garrett *swoon*...I love that line of the movie too that you quoted. I remember feeling all warm and fuzzy when she said that...warm and fuzzy because of the hidden truth of the statement but sad for the situation all at the same time. Your reviews are always so great...whether the movie was good or bad!

Katie said...

Half of the fun of watching movies with friends is coming up with alternate endings! That one sounds like a fun movie - I'll have to remember that title.

Abigail said...

I actually really want to see this movie, even though I typically don't like that type of plot-line either. I thought the trailer looked really good/interesting.