Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Broken Pieces

Author(s): Chris Perkins
Location: IL


"Broken Pieces"

Written & Directed by Robert Benton
Produced by Jeff Sharp
Music by Gustavo Santaolalla
Edited by Anne V. Coates
Cinematography by Enrique Chediak

Main Cast

Joseph Gordon Levitt as Edward Jones
Dominique Swain as Maddie Snow
Madeline O' Brian as Delilah
Wentworth Miller as Brian
Philip Bosco as Emerald

Tagline: "When love is lost, it's always hard to gather back the pieces"

Synopsis: Edward Jones (Levitt) and Maddie Snow (Swain) have been together for over five years. The moment they met they knew it was an instant attraction. He was a recent graduating student from Michigan State University working as an intern at the hospital his grandfather, Emerald (Bosco), was employed at and she was a struggling stage actress trying to make a name for herself. During their first year as a couple, Maddie conceives a child, Delilah (O' Brien), to the dismay of both lovers’ families. From then on, the couple ends up raising their daughter in a cozy and spacious home. Now, things have been getting worse for the family. Edward has just been diagnosed with asperger syndrome, an autistic disorder that causes one to find difficulty in interacting socially with others, and it is causing lots of confusion and loneliness in his heart and household. In addition, his disorder is also hurting his relationship with Maddie who is unable to fully understand her boyfriend’s behavior but tries to be there for him no matter what. But soon she begins an affair with a former acting associate, Brian (Miller), who is back in town to visit his sister and her family. When Maddie is with Brian she feels comforted and loved. She starts to become conflicted between staying with Edward because of his disorder and for the sake of their daughter or leaving him for a new man. "Broken Pieces" is the tragic story of what happens when life over takes love and when difficult decisions have to be made.

What the Press would say:

"Broken Pieces", the outstanding new film by Robert Benton ("Kramer Vs. Kramer"), is an amazing and riveting triumph. It tells the story of a young couple whose lives and affection are torn apart after one of them is diagnosed with asperger, an autistic disorder that causes difficulty in someones social interactions.

Indie favorite Joseph Gordon Levitt delivers a subtle yet powerfully emotional performance as Edward Jones, a young father who is diagnosed with this disorder and starts to build much grief in his spirit as his world becomes empty and isolated. Levitt's performance is commendable of being compared to a young Marlon Brando. He creates this character with such mesmerizing force and raw bravado. It's truly an unforgettable award worthy showcase. Also great in this film is Dominique Swain as Maddie Snow, a young woman who is caught between two conflicted decisions. Swain shows a lot of range in such an impressive way. Her character's loyalty to her boyfriend is tested by her need for admiration and consoling. Swain gives her character an incredible amount of complexity. She shows the real pain this young woman has to go through while watching her boyfriend suffer.

The directing and writing by Academy Award®-winner Robert Benton make the story feel really authentic and uncompromising. There is never a dull or melodramatic element to this profound film. It’s message about love and life is clear but it never feels as if the film is hitting you against the head with its meaning. All of the characters in this story feel existent and genuine as well.

Overall "Broken Pieces" is one of the best films of the year. From its astounding performances to the fantastic writing and directing. This film is one that should not to be missed.

Awards Consideration
Best Picture
Best Director - Robert Benton
Best Actor - Joseph Gordon Levitt
Best Supporting Actress - Dominique Swain
Best Original Screenplay

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