Smashed (*** out of ****)

Smashed is quite the frustrating movie and I'm thankful it was. For the most part the film plays out in such a natural way that every ounce of one's attention will be fixated on the events on screen. The heartbreaks and obstacles feel real or at least not Hollywood dribble. Smashed is a serious movie about alcoholism, but not overly dramatic, often the film is darkly light hearted. This combination makes it easy (or perhaps simply "easier") to sympathize with some character on screen. They don't have to be likable or make the happy choices, much more like actual life.

A married couple, Kate (A fantastic Mary Elizabeth Winstead) and Charlie (Aaron Paul), relish in their drinking. They share the joy it brings them and are quick to forgive each other for their drunken mistakes. Kate has several terrible nights that started from alcohol consumption that has lead her to try to get sober. Perhaps the worst mistake she made was vomiting in front of her students at her job, then lying about being pregnant. She's supported by the vice principal (Nick Offerman) who discovers the true reason for her embarrassment. Kate tries to bring some honesty and control to her life, but how does this affect Charlie. I was reminded of the film Candy, a brutal love story of two young herion addicts who would discover the drug is what kept them together. Charlie is not wrong for wanting to continue drinking when Kate decides to quit, but how does it affect their relationship? Love for a person comes from certain ideals in most cases, without that mutual belief it is only a matter of time before the love is put to test.

A rich supporting cast supports Mary Elizabeth Winstead in her first truly great performance of her career. She plays her character as warm, strong, and above all interesting. Winstead turns a still otherwise good movie until something memorable.

*** out of ****