You can find my first underrated film review - HERE
This review is of a 2014 drama starring Jennifer Aniston called 'Cake'.
'Cake' has been a film that I have avoided since it's 2014 release, as I, like many others, didn't believe Jennifer Aniston was suitable for such a serious role, that was even after she was nominated for a Golden Globe for the performance. I think that Aniston is a terrific lighthearted actress, she is great in comedies and romance flicks, but I have never been convinced that she could capture an audience with her acting, that was until I finally gave in and watched 'Cake'.
'Cake' is the story of Claire (Aniston), who becomes fascinated with the suicide of a woman from her chronic pain support group, while also tackling memories of her own personal tragedy. This film builds up slowly, as you learn more about Claire, as the storyline continues you see just how amazing Aniston's performance really is. Claire is a character that has many layers to her, that are shown gradually throughout the course of the movie. She is a harsh woman with a dry sense of humour, who closes herself away from the world, but it is only once you learn what she has been through, and what pain she is still going through, that you see she is fragile, and closes herself off for a reason. I believe that Aniston captures each part of this character perfectly, only giving a little bit of weakness away at a time.
As Claire learns more of the woman's suicide, so do we. Nina, played by Anna Kendrick, had just as many levels to her as Claire does, her story is a sad one, that makes us all look to our own lives. Kendrick plays the part perfectly, she delivers Nina's sweet personality, alongside the darker side, that has been enhanced during her struggle with chronic pain. We learn she has a husband (Sam Worthington), who develops a poignant relationship with Claire, as they both try to heal each others wounds.
There are many good supporting performances within this film, but the best one I believe comes from Claire's maid/cook/carer Silvana, played by Adriana Barraza. Silvana brings out the softer side to Aniston's character. Barraza perfectly accompanies Aniston, as she gives her the space to develop the character within various scenes, and displays Silvana's empathy brilliant.
I recommend this film to any drama film fan, and anyone who is a fan of Jennifer Aniston. This film has all the elements to grip you to the screen, and Jennifer Aniston was extremely unlucky not to receive an Oscar nod for this fantastic performance. If you're not a fan of Aniston's acting, then I still recommend 'Cake', because you will walk away pleasantly surprised by just how much range she really has as an actress, she's not just Rachel from 'Friends'.
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