Infinitely Polar Bear

Mark Ruffalo engages himself in a compelling and deeply emotive performance in the 2014 semi-autobiographical film Infinitely Polar Bear. The film's title, Infinitely Polar Bear, refers to a lighthearted term coined by the family to represent the father’s mental disorder, eluding to the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder that characterizes Ruffalo’s character which forms the crux of the movie's plot. This North American production, written and directed by Maya Forbes, takes a close look at family, mental health, and the lengths we go to for those we love.

Ruffalo stars as Cameron Stuart, a man struggling with bipolar disorder. His portrayal of this complex character is authentic and touching, effectively shining a light on a poorly understood condition. He beautifully walks the thin line between eliciting empathy for his character and showcasing the unsettling realities of mental illnesses.

The plot of the film revolves around Cameron's struggle with his mental disorder alongside his concurrent struggle to raise his two girls, Amelia and Faith, played spectacularly by Imogene Wolodarsky and Ashley Aufderheide, respectively. These two young actors hold their ground remarkably next to Ruffalo delivering honest and powerful performances.

Zoe Saldana gracefully portrays the kids' mother, Maggie. Her role is demanding in its own right, serving as the family's breadwinner and leaving her to make difficult decisions. Frustrated by their poverty, she decides to pursue an MBA, hoping for a stable future for her family. She moves to New York for eighteen months, leaving the children with Cameron who, despite his loving nature and earnest efforts, grapples with the enormity of his responsibilities and his own daily struggles.

Infinitely Polar Bear ultimately gets its narrative strength from juxtaposing the heartwarming relationships and affection in Cameron's family with the harsh realities and struggles of his mental condition. The film tries to establish that family situations are not always perfect, and the complexities and challenges faced by a family where one member is diagnosed with a mental illness.

While the movie is an emotional family drama, Forbes's skillful direction ensures that it is not devoid of comedy. There are light moments scattered throughout, which provide a much-needed breather from the intense emotional exploration. The screenplay's balance between humor and emotional richness successfully paints a picture of a family choosing love over adversity. Cameron’s character is eccentric, lovable, and at times frustrating, which adds an element of unpredictability that keeps you invested in the plot throughout.

The period detail of the 1970s is captured beautifully, the sense of time and place becoming almost a character in itself. The cinematography by Bobby Bukowski is splendid, and he has done an excellent job capturing in his lens not just the scenes but the emotions carried by the characters.

Ruffalo’s performance stands as one of the finest in his career. The subtle nuances he brings forward in his portrayal of Cameron are astounding and he beautifully captures the essence of a man doing his best despite his own inner turmoil. Saldana, too, delivers a powerful performance as a woman torn between her aspirations and her responsibilities toward her family.

Infinitely Polar Bear is a poignant, comedic, and compelling portrait of a family living with the effects of mental health. The film, however, is not just about bipolar disorder but a broader commentary on love, relationships, and resilience. It's a testament to the strength of familial bonds, their endurance under pressure, and their ability to evolve. The film, while serious and thought-provoking, remains hopeful, showcasing the power of love in facing life's challenges.

In conclusion, Infinitely Polar Bear is a potent drama laced with elements of comedy that takes the audience on an emotional journey while shedding light on a serious topic. With impressive performances, raw emotion, and its interesting narrative, it offers a fresh perspective on the age-old theme of family resilience and unity despite adversities. It’s a heartrending yet amusing viewing experience that will leave you contemplating well after it ends.