Smashed
Studio: Sony Pictures Classics
Oct 12, 2012
Web Exclusive
In Smashed, Mary Elizabeth Winstead delivers a breakout dramatic performance as Kate, an alcoholic grammar school teacher trying to get sober. Kate and her music writer husband, Charlie (Aaron Paul), live a modest L.A. lifestyle aided by his parents. Whether out with friends enjoying music or at home making love, alcohol is a constant for the young couple. After two life-jeopardizing drunken episodes, Kate has the wherewithal to recognize her problem and accept help. Charlie continues drinking while Kate attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, which fractures their relationship and leaves her feeling isolated. The screenplay is based on the experiences of comedian Susan Burke, who co-wrote the film with director James Ponsoldt. Smashed focuses more on recovery than on the dark, ugly depths of alcoholism, which allows Ponsoldt to imbue the film with a melancholic beauty reminiscent of Blue Valentine. Nick Offerman, looking like a Zach Galifianakis character, adds comic relief, while Winstead and Paul go for the heartbreak.
Author rating: 7/10
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