Aging Backwards, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" mesmerizes

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros.

Tagline: “My name is Benjamin Button, and I was born under unusual circumstances.”

Based on the short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” in theaters Dec. 25, is a stunning film about a man who is born in his 80s and ages in reverse.
Despite Benjamin's bizarre, unlikely situation, the film's story, helmed by director David Fincher of “Fight Club” and “Se7en,” is beautiful, profound and surprisingly relevant.
Though Benjamin, portrayed by Brad Pitt, experiences life differently from those around him, the issues of life, mortality and death affect him too.

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Benjamin's life may be lived backwards, but he still encounters and experiences many of the milestones and tribulations of any human life. His story is singular, but the messages and thoughts it incites are universal.
Fate can be fickle, Fincher's tale seems to say, but what we do with our time on earth is one of the few things we can control.

Though “Button” is not the epic it aspires to be, it is lifted by Pitt's subtle yet mesmerizing performance. Pitt brings charm, vulnerability, and a whimsical faith to Benjamin, making him an endearingly likable character, whose remarkable story will remain with viewers long after the final credits have rolled.

Bottom Line: An interesting storyline, beautiful sets and a poignant message are all bolstered by Pitt's masterful performance. Definitely worth seeing this holiday season.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

*For the full review, pick up the newest copy of the Collegiate, on stands Dec. 10th.