The upshot being that I can decide on the films I want to watch at the cinema. If I don't like the look of something I can avoid it, and then catch up with it when it arrives on Blu-Ray or an on demand service. The only time I try and make sure I see all releases, regardless of their genre, is Oscar season. I really enjoy watching the awards ceremonies, The Oscars and The BAFTAs. Like some, I love to make predictions on who and what will win. Congratulating myself when I get it right, telling myself how wrong the judges are when I don't. In order to do this, I am currently living at the cinema. As I do at this time every year. Sometimes this sees me having to sit through films that I'd rather not, to put it mildly. Other times, I uncover some gems that I would have otherwise avoided.
It's almost like the studios planned the whole thing out. Crazy right?!
August: Osage County was very much the latter. Even though it didn't look like the high octane, explosion riddled adventure that usually catches my eye, the more than impressive cast list made it difficult to ignore. Lead by Meryl Streep, there are also Chris Cooper, Ewan McGregor, Juliette Lewis, Benedict Cumberbatch and a stellar performance from Julia Roberts.
Osage County was adapted for the big screen by Tracy Letts, who also wrote the play from which it was developed. I was completely unfamiliar with the stage show, so I had no idea what was in store for me. Whether it has changed much, for better, or worse, I am not sure.
I'd be wrong if I didn't say that Meryl Streep steals the show with her depiction of Violet Weston. The matriarch of a dysfunctional family, all brought back to their childhood home in Oklahoma after a family tragedy. Her performance is mesmerising, and one that could very well see her claim her 4th Oscar win. That isn't to say the supporting cast doesn't do their bit. In particular Julia Roberts, playing daughter Barbara Weston. You could even argue that they share lead roles on screen together. The strength of the assembled cast is showcased in one of the best scenes of the film, a family dinner that sees them all gathered at once around the dinner table. Anyone who's endured an awkward family meal may well be watching that scene from behind their hands.
With great performances all round, August: Osage County is well worth a watch. Whether Meryl Streep wins her fourth Oscar from this remains to be seen. Whoever wins it, one things for sure this year. With the calibre and strength of the films this year, they'll be worthy winners.
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