Chris here. Could this finally be Jake Gyllenhaal's Oscar year? Of course it's too early to call (and we won't jinx our adored Jake) but he's got a true life drama coming that's right in the Academy's wheelhouse: David Gordon Green's Stronger.
Gyllenhaal stars as Jeff Bauman, a survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing that lost both legs and helped identify the assailants. The film charts his recovery and rehabilitation as he becomes the face of the survivors for the city of Boston and the world at large. True story, disability, big emotion - quite a few of Oscar's favorite pasttimes, and maybe a more mainstream play for Gyllenhaal. But how does the film look? Take a look at the first trailer and we'll run down the Yes No Maybe So after the jump...
YES
- Jake. Always Jake. Even Bubble Boy Jake.
- However, way to bury the Miranda Richardson lede. Even if this isn't the return to plum roles for the two-time Oscar nominee, we're always pleased to see her on the screen.
- Isn't it strange that all the raves Tatiana Maslany received for Ophan Black hasn't translated to more film work? Those who have missed her on TV should be getting what looks like strong work from her here.
- If we're going to dramatize recent tragedy, filmmakers would do best to stick to the human story. Familiar beats or no, this looks nothing like the toxicity we got last year with Patriots Day.
NO
- But there are a lot of familiar beats. Supportive girlfriend, physical therapy montages, Americana, etc.
- What's with that swing/wheelchair sight gag? Can't say physical comedy was quite what I expected here...
- The overwhelming heartwarming-factor is already stifling every bit of nuance Jake is giving here. When he's not screaming, that is.
MAYBE SO
- While director David Gordon Green doesn't always deliver a home run, it's encouraging to have someone who favors the understated with this kind of story, no? He's been an indie stalwart for going on two decades, so maybe it's time for some career acknowledgement.
- Are they hiding Bauman's assistance in the FBI investigation or omitting it? That's kind of a crucial narrative piece that we're missing here.
I'm leaning Maybe So on the film, though Gyllenhaal is an always yes. What do you think, readers?