One of 2012’s most hidden gems is Smashed, which had the distinction of premiering here in the City at TIFF in September. Written and directed by James Ponsoldt, the Dramedy centers around a Grade School Teacher named Kate (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), whose battle with Alcoholism spills into the most important aspects of her life including her Career, Marriage and relationship with her Mom. Without the full support of her Husband Charlie (Aaron Paul), Kate finds herself at odds with herself, questioning whether or not her relationship with him will survive as she travels the road to sobriety.
Smashed depends almost entirely on the performance of its Heroine Kate, and Winstead steps-up to the challenge here in quite possibly her meatiest role to date, succeeding largely. She humanizes what in less capable hands could have read as grating moodiness, truly understanding the goodness in Kate‘s heart with her empathic approach. Her transformation is a real journey and we feel her struggle, wanting her to succeed even if others around her aren’t growing with her. Paul also complements her well, completely believable as her higher-functioning Husband who also is dependent on Alcohol. Oscar Winner Octavia Spencer as always is a pleasure to see as Kate‘s Sponsor, Jenny, while Parks & Recreation‘s Nick Offerman is delightfully awkward and intense.
What makes Smashed a fantastic Film is that it chooses not to rely on Melodrama, but focuses on taking us through a real struggle in the brief 80 minutes it lasts. Nothing is black or white and the Film is beautiful in that it recognizes the gray areas of life in the decisions are faced with. Sony Pictures Home Entertainment releases on March 12, 2013, in Blu-ray and DVD Formats. Click here to order.
See Snaps I took at the TIFF 2012 Premiere of Smashed here!
For advertising opportunites please contact mrwill@mrwillwong.com