i sometimes question myself if there are any true great filmmakers, consistent filmmakers, that put in great efforts or at least good efforts every time they make a film. we're far removed from the golden age of writer/directors in the 70's but David O. Russell is one of the few that just never seems to disappoint me. Ever since "Spanking the Monkey" through "The Fighter", he's made some excellent films.
This is a thoroughly entertaining and sometimes poingant film not so much about mental illness, but its affects on others. the most obvious character is the main character who is probably the fictional counterpart to russell's real life persona. the guy is nuts. but he seems to want his heart in the right place. his illness has alienated him from most people, including himself, who can't seem to admit who he is to himself. tiffany is similar, creating a world for herself and living in a shell, but sees something inside pat (cooper) that he doesn't see. the two of them are good for each other because they're so bad for themselves, and even though it's pretty clear that they're going to get together...the journey is well worth the trip. it's funny, it's painful, it's captivating, and it's touching.
i also loved the touch of the eagles fan syndrome. these guys can't help but be violent. deniro reminds me of an uncle i have that used to get crazy at eagles games. he wasn't officially banned from the park but he had a few incidents in his younger years before he cleaned himself up.
all in all, this is not only a great movie, it's a great relationship movie. bring your significant other for sure. it's not a chick flick by any means, but i would say you have a good chance for getting lucky after something like this.
out of