Cake

Every once in a while, we get offered a film that has everything to do with an intricate character study of a individual or an ensemble cast dealing with dysfunction, emotional and/or physical upheaval whereas the plot isn't as integral as the character study and how the actor pulls off this role. As with the case of "Cake", this is a true character study rife with fine acting at its best.

The acerbic, hilarious Claire Bennett (Jennifer Aniston) become obsessed and fascinated by the suicide of a woman, Nina Collins (Anna Kendrick) in her chronic pain support group. As she uncovers the details of Nina's suicide and develops a poignant relationship with Nina's husband, Roy Collins (Sam Worthington), she also grapples with her own, very raw personal tragedy, much with the assistance of her housekeeper and confidant, Silvana (Adriana Barraza), who is able to deal with Claire's anger, whether outburst or suppressed, and a good deal of bitterness that others cannot or more precisely, will not accept.

Others to round out the cast are Mamie Gummer as Bonnie, a physical therapist, Felicity Huffman as Annette, felicitator of the support group, Chris Messina as Jason Bennett, Claire's ex, William H. Macy as Leonard, Lucy Punch as Nurse Gayle and Manuel Garcia- Rulfo as Arturo.

This was directed looking through the eyes of this disturbing character by Daniel Barnz ("Phoebe in Wonderland" '08, "Beastly" '11, "Won't Back Down" '12). This guy doesn't have a ton of experience, but he has the ability to get his actors to emit just the right amount of emotion--whether positive or negative which is delineated with such precision. The writing by Patrick Tobin ("No Easy Way" '96) had to be purposely downplayed so as to showcase Aniston's character study of this woman in crisis unable to grasp the realities of pain and sorrow all the while attempting to deal with her pain issues and having a prescription med addiction on top of everything else. This woman is clearly walking a very fragile tightrope, both emotionally and physically, and the script was written accordingly. So even though the plot isn't overly original, the way Aniston pulled off this study of this problematic woman was spot on. The very way she physically moved and her expressions exuded an incredibly painful situation. No wonder she received a Golden Globe nod. I am always amazed how this actor showcases her acting ability when she does drama or even dramedy-- others being "Friends with Money" '06 and "The Break-up" '06. She should be in more dramas so she can really shine more often.

As I said, this needs to be seen for the acting--Adriana Barraza as Silvana also shines, much more than for storyline. The story is merely the backdrop for these fine actors to showcase what they can do best.

Out of 4 Stars: 3.5                               Rated: R                              102mins.