Blue Valentine is a romance movie drama directed by Derek Cianfrance starring Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling. The movie premiered at the “Sundance Film Festival” in January 2010. This is a story of “boy meets girl” (or vice versa), and you should know upfront, that this is a real love story.
Dean (played by Ryan Gosling) works for a moving company and like Tom, he is a sucker for love. One day, as he finishes his shift of unpacking at a nursing home, he meets Cindy (Michelle Williams). Upon laying eyes on her, he knows she is the one.
“Maybe I have seen too many movies, love at first sight.
-Dean, Blue Valentine (2010)
Do you think you can love somebody just by looking at them?”
However, as he approaches her to ask for her number, she rejects him. But as faith would have it, they coincide on a bus ride, where he takes his shot.
Blue Valentine – (1/5 years)
As time passes by, they begin a new relationship. On one hand, Cindy aspires to become a doctor, whereas Dean is a school dropout but is ready to provide for her.
Moreover, just like any first love-stages, they spend the days together, are lovey-dovey, get married, and have their first child.
Fast forward five years later, their marriage seems to be in shambles, and the only string keeping them together is their daughter, Frankie (Faith Wladyka).
(5/5 years)
Unfortunately, her dream of becoming a doctor has not panned out, and she works as a nurse. On the other hand, he is a painter.
To revive the spark, Dean shares the idea of going to a motel. Nonetheless, once they are there, Cindy questions life. Just like Summer, she believes he has more potential than being just a painter.
What was supposed to be a romantic getaway, turns into a blue valentine and there is no turning back. Despite their efforts, the flaming spark has vanished. So, is this what love (coincidence/destiny) comes down to once the lovey-dovey phase exits the picture?
To conclude, “500 Days of Summer” and “Blue Valentine” have similarities. As the audience watches flashbacks and present times, they must puzzle the pieces together to contemplate the big picture (Side A and B).
We all have expectations in life and live in a fictional world where the core existence of love exists, yet reality overshadows it.
Revisit the trailer in the link below.
