Revolutionary Road

Set in 1955, Frank (Leonardo DiCaprio) and April Wheeler (Kate Winslet) move to Revolutionary Road in a Connecticut suburb, and have a daughter and a son. April is dissatisfied with her life as a suburban housewife. Frank despises his marketing job at Knox Business Machines, where his now-deceased father worked for twenty years in a similar position. The Wheelers feel they are unique and special, but trapped in the conformity of life in the suburbs, where they moved to raise their children. From time to time they have bitter arguments, with Frank berating April and acting out physically. From time to time, they have outlandish ideas about moving to Paris for a change of scenery. They are struggling with their marriage but are afraid to leave each other. I thought the film was fantastic. Who knew that such a simple storyline could tell the story of almost every couple that struggles with their marriage. The sincere acting of Kate Winslet blew me away. 2008 was without a doubt, her year. DiCaprio's performance was nothing short of excellent as well. Michael Shannon did an outstanding job playing the role of the Wheeler's realtor's son who lives in a mental institution. He is often outspoken and speaks the truth about Frank and April's life. This movie is a roller coaster of emotions and I recommend that everybody sees this work of art. 3 and a half out of 4 stars.