Watching the new David O. Russell film, you cannot help but be transported. With a dynamic set of very unique characters, a compelling storyline and an eclectic combination of layers of meaning, it is no surprise that this film has been praised as one of the best of the year, despite it having only one Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
Jennifer Lawrence takes on a much meatier character this time round. Having worked with Russell successfully before, there is a very clear sense of command that she carries in her role. She plays Joy, an overworked single mother who is managing her whole family and work, while trying to get to fighting for her dream to become a successful inventor.
Loosely based on a true story, this movie gives a unique interpretation of the times. It captures the struggle of a dying age of the housewife, while also introducing the wonders of television sales channels and business law. You may think that this all sounds very serious, but these elements are merely the outlines of an inspiring story, coloured in with rich hues of humour and vibrant characters.
My favourite thing about this film, however, is the amazing use of metaphor throughout. Opening with a full scene from an old American soapie that Joy’s mother watches, there are multiple parallels drawn from Joy’s reality. It is a satirical commentary that, even if not fully understood, sets the tone for the film. In many ways, it symbolises how detached all the supporting characters are from true reality – throwing the full pressures of life onto Joy to carry. Whether it is the mother’s reclusive behaviour, her father’s faulted business acumen or her ex-husband’s hopeless dreams to be the next Tom Jones, all of them live in their own versions of reality, unaware of what Joy has to do to keep everything from falling apart.
There is a very dry, sometimes dark, sense of humour throughout everything. It blurs between irony and cold hard fact to a point where you realise how ridiculous the human condition is. One of my favourite scenes is when Joy freezes on live television. The comical outplay of the situation is amusing in isolation, but the truth that her whole life depends on how she performs anchors the moment to leave the audience wanting to laugh, be anxious, and cheer her on all at once. That is where I have found Russell excels – in combining the hilarity of life with reality, which leaves you not only amused but internally challenged. In many ways, David O. Russell’s perspective of American life is what should truly be celebrated. Embodying an almost Arthur Miller kind of euphoria, Joy is the most cohesive addition to his body of work in that regard.
If you are looking for something that is inspired – something where you will be able to appreciate story, cinematography, acting and directing – this film is worth watching. You will leave satisfied, challenged and somewhat enlightened about the way people can live. Check out the trailer here.