Movie Review by Dr Kuma
Starring: Russell Crowe, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly, Paul Bettany, Adam Goldberg
Director: Ron Howard
This is an intensely human drama of true genius, inspired by the events in the life of mathematician John Forbes Nash, Jr.
Forbes Nash’s rise in the field of mathematics was astonishing until his brilliance turned to paranoia in the form of acute schizophrenia. Although many have folded under the intense pressure of this terrible decease, Nash fights back, trying in the best way possible to control his demons.
Although this premise seems very heavy (and it is) this is finally the movie in which Russell Crowe moves away from General Maximus and GLADIATOR and into the top league of actors who command one’s respect. No longer will the name Russell Crowe mean ‘commercial’. As he has proved time and time again, he really is an excellent actor that I as well as many others have never really given full credit.
Not only is this the best serious Crowe movie, it’s also the best film Ron Howard has made. Since leaving HAPPY DAYS Ron has made several ‘movies of the time’ that fade as time passes. A BEAUTIFUL MIND will still be revered in years to come as one of the most intelligent and challenging movies Holly wood has ever produced.
I really don’t want to go into too much depth as the movie is so convoluted that you really need to see it for yourselves to fully appreciate it. The whole cast is excellent. Jennifer Connelly (the most beautiful actress in Hollywood – fact) is superb if a little cold and Ed Harris is, as always, superb.
Although this, as stated, is a serious movie about schizophrenia, you should really approach this film as an educational experience and keep an open mind and handkerchief.
If this movie does not win Oscars for best actor and director it will be a crime.
Verdict: Not the easiest movie to sit through, but easily one of the most rewarding.
