The subtle differences between the movies recognized at award shows and those that aren’t are on display in Country Strong. In a nutshell, it’s essentially a strong ensemble cast crooning authentic country songs throughout an overzealous script. That script follows a recovering alcoholic/country music star (Gwenyth Paltrow) as she hits the road with two promising talents (Garrett Hedlund and Leighton Meester). All the while, her manager husband (Tim McGraw) keeps the pressure on to deliver a successful tour whether she’s ready or not.
While Paltrow is the big name promoted with the film, Hedlund emerges as the real star. He plays the country music purist very well. Being the most stable of the characters, there is not much development however. His views of others may evolve, but that’s it. The other standout is Mcgraw, whose business driven character has the look of a real money hungry music mogul. Like he did in Friday Night Lights and The Blind Side, McGraw shows he can outshine Hollywood heavyweights. This occasion was probably easier for him, seeing that he actually is a country music star. He’s still good though. Paltrow and Meester do deserve mentioning, but were handily overshadowed.
There are a lot of powerful scenes spread throughout Country Strong. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of soap opera plot points. Is it entirely necessary for everyone to sleep together? Or how about constant alcoholic relapses? In reality there are more subtle and effective ways to show someone struggling than chugging vodka while dancing on top of a bar. This is the fault of the screenwriter more so than the actors. But some scenes were impressive. When Paltrow’s character makes a visit to a child with leukemia, it has a real nice feel to it. And Hedlund leads a good amount of emotional exchanges with the other characters. Lastly, I must add that I did enjoy the parade of flannel shirts chosen by the wardrobe department. Apparently I dress like country music singers. (8.0 out of 10)
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