Last week, the latest feature from David O. Russell hit the theaters in the USA, just in time to gain – the much needed – momentum for Oscar-season. He’s (again) counting on his dream team Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper and Robert de Niro, which we have seen working together on Russell’s previous hits “Silver Linings Playbook” (2012) and “American Hustle” (2013).
This years comedy-drama is based on a true story which describes the difficult rise to success of Joy Mangano (Jennifer Lawrence) and her ‘revolutionary’ invention: the “wonder mop”. The mop was a big success in the 90s when products were sold through awful (but effective) infomercials on television networks. Before getting there, Joy has to overcome adversity and tries to convince herself and the world of her ingenuity.
J-Law gives a solid performance and gets more convincing as the film progresses, while Cooper is consistent throughout, playing a television producer. The true champ however, is Robert de Niro. He is a ‘joy’ to watch and looks really comfortable playing this funny and crazy father who struggles with his investments and relationships.
In the end the movie is enjoyable to watch but doesn’t really deliver. The story is straightforward and obviously predictable. Joy Mandango is an inspiring character, but the writing isn’t good enough. It’s intriguing nor funny. The movie tries to juggle between comedy and drama but lacks emotional standout moments to carry the film towards the end. Even though the actors game is on point it doesn’t make for a memorable movie.
6/10
