While growing up, most people envision the possibilities for their futures as endless. They set goals and dream of lives they can be happy living, pursuing their passions and making the most of their opportunities. The trouble with life in the “real world,” though, is that things don’t always go according to plan and people often forget to follow their dreams.
The latest film from director Sam Mendes, “Revolutionary Road,” explores the life of a couple who wakes up one day to find that they are settling for the life they never wanted. To the outside world, the Wheelers seem like the perfect couple, especially to their real estate agent Helen Givings (Kathy Bates). Frank (Leonardo DiCaprio) commutes to New York City every morning, working at a job he hates in order to provide for his family, while April (Kate Winslet) stays at home to take care of their two children. The couple feels as though they are not living to their potential and are literally stuck in the cliché suburban lifestyle, often taking their frustrations and annoyances out on each other.
In their first film together since “Titanic,” the acting of DiCaprio and Winslet makes the film a success. Even though “Revolutionary Road” is the polar opposite to “Leave it to Beaver” in terms of the 1950s lifestyle, the film does incorporate comedic effect through the son of Helen Givings. Played by Michael Shannon, John Givings is a grown man who is mentally unstable. His character comes off as rude and abrasive, but at times, it seems like the crazy man is the smartest person in the room.
The actual plotline is unique to the silver screen, and although the film is set in the 1950s, it still depicts the shocking reality of some marriages today. However, there does not seem to be a distinct target audience.
“Revolutionary Road” is a film worth the two hours of your time. The acting is unbelievably impressive and the message will stick with you long after the credits. But consider yourself warned: Don’t be expecting the timeless romance of Jack and Rose, for the Wheelers show a whole other side of Leo and Kate.