The Ballad of Jack and Rose(2005)- User Reviews

I must say that Daniel Day-Lewis was fairly fantastic in "The Ballad of Jack and Rose", but I expected that when I rented it. He's one of the better actors of our time. He effectively portrays a sheltered man in a sheltered world, struggling to comprehend the vastness and progression of society outside of his seaside compound. He's a true joy to watch as he sprays the lead character's emotions around in many different directions.
The rest of the cast and frankly, the actual plot of this movie was not up to par with Day-Lewis' performance. Camilla Belle, as the daughter, is fairly decent in her role, which reminded me in a way of Winona Ryder in "Girl, Interrupted". She's nothing special, as she walks the line between effectively conveying Rose's emotions and clouding up the reasons why Rose is like she is.
Maybe this is a mistake on the behalf of the director, but the role of Rose just didn't seem to have much behind it or a point to it.
The other characters just don't have much of a point and the actors don't seem like they even bother to give their characters one. Beau Bridges, in a limited role, is a notable exception, as his scenes with Day-Lewis are fairly powerful and bring out some of the better acting in this flick.
But the others are simply mediocre at best. I despise Jena Malone with a passion already; she didn't improve my opinion of her with her portrayal of the rebel teenager. Catherine Keener was disappointing.
The entire story, as a whole, is disappointing. It's not exactly a riveting tale, and some scenes don't seem to fit in the plot.
I'd recommend to anyone that's a fan of Daniel Day-Lewis, since he doesn't make any bad movies that I've personally seen. But if you're expecting a good overall movie, I'd look elsewhere.