SLP has my vote for 2012’s best film. It is a fantastic melting pot of everything you want to see in a romantic comedy and more:

It’s a terrific comedy: The manic phase of bipolar is usually no laughing matter. Except when it comes from Bradley Cooper in an environment where crazy is met with crazy, or quirky, and the acknowledgement that everyone has a bit of kook in them. In SLP, kooky comes in the form of the antics from Philly family and friends, and funny outbursts from an unforgettable Jennifer Lawrence

Its an excellent romance: Everyone knows what is supposed to happen, yet the bonding creeps up on you until near the end of the movie where the thought that it might not happen is painful to you, the audience. Now that’s a successful romance!

It’s a great come from behind drama: Indeed the message of many come from behind movies – is about the silver lining behind life’s difficulties. And yes, you need a playbook to get there. SLP repeats this message by not only using humor, but using plenty of drama. When the characters aren’t being crazy, they are being dramatic. From son, to girlfriend, to father – the flair for the dramatic rears itself, and it doesn’t feel contrived. Its a necessary component that makes the characters and the story feel real and whole.

It’s a great East Coast culture story: SLP does a great job of imparting the animated nature of in-your-face East Coast culture. No mincing words. Tell it like you see it. Where friendships run deep and football allegiances mean everything.

See this movie now. I promise you won’t be disappointed.