The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Paramount Pictures | Release Date: December 25, 2008
7.4
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 683 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
513
Mixed:
84
Negative:
86
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8
SpangleAug 31, 2014
Probably one of the more unique films I have ever seen, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a moving film about life and truly wraps you up into its world and never lets you go, ultimately leaving you deeply affected and moved by the film.Probably one of the more unique films I have ever seen, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a moving film about life and truly wraps you up into its world and never lets you go, ultimately leaving you deeply affected and moved by the film. The direction by David Fincher is fantastic as usual. The cinematography is also gorgeous and perfect for a film of this type. The costume and production design are also pitch perfect, as is the stunning makeup. The makeup is some of the best I have ever seen in a film, honestly. The acting from Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, and Taraji P. Henson, is also very powerful and very good. The unique story of a man born old and who gets younger as time goes on, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a touching, brilliantly made film that is a tad long, but never feels as long as it is, especially since you wish there was more to see once the credits start rolling. While the romance elements have been done before, the unique twist thrown in here adds a certain freshness to it that elevates it above your usual romantic film. This is a film you need to see.… Expand
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8
RikiegeJan 23, 2013
Very good movie. Cry, your heart will suffer, but not leave wing time to enjoy.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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8
JawsLaxerDramaDec 21, 2012
This movie is LONGGG. Very long. So it pays to be into a deep psychological mood or even pondering the meaning of life. Brad Pitt stars as Ben Button. This film, while some complain it is too long, too boring,etc., it is very REWARDING in theThis movie is LONGGG. Very long. So it pays to be into a deep psychological mood or even pondering the meaning of life. Brad Pitt stars as Ben Button. This film, while some complain it is too long, too boring,etc., it is very REWARDING in the end. Sure, complain that it doesn't have a story. It is not one of those light-hearted movies, it is not a comedy; but a genius film that depicts life in a different way. I thought it was a magical movie, and offered the very best. The camera tells the story, and as a result, I did actually cry at the end. Decide for yourself if you really like it, but I know I did. B+… Expand
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8
wornoutspinesMar 12, 2015
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a weird little - it’s a 2 hours and half - film. The subject is intriguing enough to get you to watch it but you stay because it’s simply captivating. I was so invested in the story that I cried severalThe Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a weird little - it’s a 2 hours and half - film. The subject is intriguing enough to get you to watch it but you stay because it’s simply captivating. I was so invested in the story that I cried several times while watching it. The film is touching and heartwarming, and also subtle. It seamlessly breezes through times and really brings to life what the tagline is about “Life isn’t measured in minutes but in moments.”

The film does go through Benjamin Button’s life and really shows every step, moments, that defined who he is. The movie is very much grounded in reality which makes the fantasy elements of the story real. You quickly believe that a boy born old but with the mind of baby is possible. So the magic is there, grounded in the reality of Benjamin’s life. I don’t know who to accredit this to but it’s very clear, palpable, that when Benjamin is growing up, looking like a man in his nineties his youthful energy shines through.

Brad Pitt, being the title character is just stunning in this film. He helps make the weird aspects of the film OK. The same goes for Taraji P. Henson, she makes the old wrinkled baby the most normal thing, she brought the dramatic gut wrenching emotions of a mother’s love in all her scenes. They all have their moments Julia Ormond, Tilda Swinton and Cate Blanchett all bring another layer, another moment in Benjamin’s life. Blanchett evokes the undeniable question of love, and a lasting one as that. Benjamin’s condition raises a valid question about age and love, which is interestingly dealt with in the film.

More than a riveting story with great acting, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a technical prowess. The make up, the cinematography, and the special effects are mind-blowing Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett look older and then younger and it’s done beautifully. The darkness and lighting in David Fincher’s style of film making really compliments the story but more so the technicality of the film. He was the perfect director for and did an amazing job throughout.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a wonderful film about time, life, and love. It’s another David Fincher masterpiece that is timeless.

@wornoutspines… Expand
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8
SrPepeFeb 9, 2018
Una historia increíble con actores brillantes, merece mucha más puntuación.
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8
twistedoracleAug 14, 2020
Hats off to the director of this 'wonderful journey.' The movie is underrated to a far extent. One may have some emotional breakdowns at certain times and become numb and enlightened as the story unfolds. It is perfect for a person who lovesHats off to the director of this 'wonderful journey.' The movie is underrated to a far extent. One may have some emotional breakdowns at certain times and become numb and enlightened as the story unfolds. It is perfect for a person who loves movies with the earlier 20th century themed-drama… Expand
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7
ArielleF.May 22, 2009
"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" started out with a good plot and high expectations for me. But it ended in such a cliche way I almost forgot how good the beginning of the movie was. And am I the only one that felt deja vu? With another "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" started out with a good plot and high expectations for me. But it ended in such a cliche way I almost forgot how good the beginning of the movie was. And am I the only one that felt deja vu? With another movie...let's say...."Forrest Gump" perhaps?… Expand
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7
NerijusD.Feb 14, 2009
Really overrated film. A simple fable with rather average shaping and kinda boring experiences. Only special effects could be considered Oscar-worthy.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
7
CarolSDec 28, 2008
Beautifully shot, edited, and designed. A bit too long. Pitt is excellent.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
jonathans.Dec 28, 2008
Keeping it as short as possible and ignoring many points I wish I could cover: excellently made in all aspects, its first half is nonetheless, just Forrest Gump 2: the cirppled legs, the childhood girl who grows away into the fast life but Keeping it as short as possible and ignoring many points I wish I could cover: excellently made in all aspects, its first half is nonetheless, just Forrest Gump 2: the cirppled legs, the childhood girl who grows away into the fast life but comes back, the best friend captain and life on the sea--I honestly considered walking out just from the intense irritation the parallels were causing. But once the film settled down in the second half to focus on Benjamin's relationships, mainly with his wife, the film became much better and atoned for the first half. If you never saw Forrest Gump or didn't make the connection, the film was likely much, much better. Not bad, but not the epic it should've been.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
AaronF.Dec 25, 2008
Frustrating in its inflated runtime and intermittent self-importance, "...Benjamin Button" is an enjoyable movie, but one that ultimately feels like "Forrest Gump" with a gimmick.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
BillyS.Dec 25, 2008
Beautifully crafted, visually stunning but emotionally detached considering the possibilities that in the screenplay.Disappointingly, It doesn't look like the Oscar magnet that I've been reading about.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
Film_Fanatic_15Dec 31, 2011
First off, It's a wonderful film. But the great films seem to make you think. You could take the film and state that it was rather "hallmark-ish", but you could also look at the brilliance in it. One of the most down to earth films in recentFirst off, It's a wonderful film. But the great films seem to make you think. You could take the film and state that it was rather "hallmark-ish", but you could also look at the brilliance in it. One of the most down to earth films in recent years, Brad Pitt shines along with the film's stunning cinematography. The only thing weak here is Fincher's decision to direct a film that totals to just way too long, and way too sulky. Though performance weight out substance here.… Expand
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7
consumerDec 25, 2010
The movie's long but they got numerous good scenes that they offer. The story of Benjamin Button getting younger in age is still like ageing to other people. I don't know if that's the point of the story though. I do know Benjamin gettingThe movie's long but they got numerous good scenes that they offer. The story of Benjamin Button getting younger in age is still like ageing to other people. I don't know if that's the point of the story though. I do know Benjamin getting younger adds conflict to the romance between him and his lover but that's about it. I'm still loving the love story of the main characters, although very depressing.… Expand
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7
Spielberg00Aug 27, 2011
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON didn't take so long to watch, I would give it either a 9 or a 10. That's how good it really is. It asks (and, in a "curious" way, answers) some of life's biggest and most complex questions. This is Brad Pitt at his absolute best, and even though he's given credit for the role of Benjamin Button, he's only one of seven actors, and we see him as the titular character for about twenty minutes.… Expand
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7
Delta_AssaultSep 28, 2011
First of all, they actually make Cate Blanchett look kinda hot in this movie with the heavy use of CGI, and I do not find Cate Blanchett hot. That is impressive.

Ok, this is basically Forrest Gump but gloomier, less colorful, and moreFirst of all, they actually make Cate Blanchett look kinda hot in this movie with the heavy use of CGI, and I do not find Cate Blanchett hot. That is impressive.

Ok, this is basically Forrest Gump but gloomier, less colorful, and more boring. The main character here is not retarded, but merely aging backwards. Instead of a bird's feather, there's a hummingbird. Instead of a girl named Jenny, it's a girl named Daisy. Instead of a son played by Haley Joel Osmont, it's a daughter played by Julia Ormond. And instead of Vietnam, it's World War II. I repeat, this is a more boring Forrest Gump.

Now with that said, I still recommend this, because Forrest Gump was a hell of a picture. That movie made me cry quite a bit, this movie merely made my eyes tear up. It's incredibly shot, and of course the special effects are amazing. Brad Pitt looks like a freak for the first half, and Cate Blanchett gets turned into an 20 year old. It's long at 2 hours and 47 minutes, so be prepared for that.

Oh yea... while it was enjoyable, this movie does not deserve to be nominated for Best Picture. It's completely crafted to be Oscar bait, but is nowhere near as good as something like The Dark Knight.… Expand
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7
MonstrosityNov 8, 2012
The Curious case of Benjamine button is verryyyyyyy longgggggg. Brad Pitt does a great job and i like the narration. It was suprisingly sadder then i expected, but still felt longer then it should.
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7
hanneguacamoleJul 27, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. "His body's failing him before his life's begun." As the title implies, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a curious one indeed. Yet the plot was predictable and not curious in the slightest, save the fact that Benjamin ages backwards. It almost reminded me of a twist on Tuck Everlasting. Horribly star-crossed lovers that can never truly be together.

I always knew there was some significance in the fact that Daisy's daughter, Caroline, was reading the story to her dying mother. It's her life as well, and as her mother lies on her death bed, she sees her mother's world, one that had never previously existed.

Benjamin's life is probably the highlight of the movie. It's interesting to see how the disconnect between his age and his body relate to the outside world. Yet the movie itself is long and drawn out – at points even painful to watch. Perhaps like Benjamin's life, painful to watch those he loves age as he just becomes younger and younger. Daisy and Benjamin may not have been able to grow old together, but they died together. The movie is tied together with stringent relations like the lightning strikes, the final glances of love, and the mutterings of "If I didn't know better I'd think this man was old/young."

This movie is no slouch, but it's not going to be anything to write home about. A mediocre (and almost disturbing?) life and lessons that could have been figured on your own, the Buttons aren't as spectacular as I had hoped.… Expand
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7
EpicLadySpongeMar 12, 2016
Benjamin Button isn't really adventurous, but it considers up a load of fun waiting for the Curious Case.... of Benjamin Button. The fun begins and ends when the movie begins and ends.
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7
HabibiehakimJun 29, 2022
It is a very interesting story to tell but The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button sadly made to the same old cases of a romance story, nothing's wrong with that as long as it's convincing, but for me personally it's kinda a rare case for aIt is a very interesting story to tell but The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button sadly made to the same old cases of a romance story, nothing's wrong with that as long as it's convincing, but for me personally it's kinda a rare case for a convincing couples that they do it rightly, Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett already became a couple in one of their previous film Babel which i love and they play husband and wife on that film and it works, they have some great chemistry on that film, and i think particularly for this one the way they portray their relationship is somehow did not work for me, they're both doing just fine as they're self but not together, so that's my main problem of the film, the second is i think the phase of the second act of the film which i found not bad but way too slow and i did got quite a lot of yawn during the second act, and for the first act it works just completely fine, so overall The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button is quite a problematic film in terms of a phasing and main character relationsip with a very interesting basic story that ended in still quite a nice way and i also still mostly enjoyed it for a 2 hours and 45 minutes film and that's one of the big pros of the film, it is quite a disappoinment of a movie coming from someone like David Fincher but as a movie itself overall it was just ok.… Expand
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7
frightopiaMar 19, 2023
The film had fantastic acting and a great concept, however it could get extremely slow at times.
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6
LawrenceH.Jan 5, 2009
This movie is just too long. I don't have a problem with long movies when there is a justifiable reason for the length...
0 of 1 users found this helpful
6
MiKEJun 8, 2009
The movie had its moments. but overall it felt silly with a serious story. The special effects were excellent! And Brad Pitt is a good actor. He was very enjoyable in this movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
ChadS.Dec 28, 2008
Dislocation is what piques our interest in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons"; dislocation is the tool of all good science fiction. As a youth imprisoned in an old man's body, or a geezer returning to the womb, that's what Dislocation is what piques our interest in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons"; dislocation is the tool of all good science fiction. As a youth imprisoned in an old man's body, or a geezer returning to the womb, that's what distinguishes Benjamin(Brad Pitt) from other protagonists in epics that depict the life and times of the titular person. But the film squanders too much time on this would-be carnival sideshow act during Benjamin's middle period, when the difference between his chronological age and his perceived age doesn't seem all that disparate. Perhaps it's the fault of the actor for not conveying that gap; he plays Benjamin as being too comfortable in his own skin. In Penny Marshall's "Big", Josh's(Tom Hanks) actions belie his perceived age, most hillariously, when he takes the top bunk at a sleepover with his co-worker. The Elizabeth Perkins character senses something is unusual about this guy. That's why "The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons" drags. He seems too normal. Shouldn't this guy be touched by a little madness? There's nothing particularly maladjusted about Benjamin that the film can exploit for comic or dramatic purposes. Lucky for Pitt, his leading lady(Cate Blanchett) more than picks up the slack. Daisy's capacity to love Benjamin romantically, then maternally, would have been made even more powerful if this staid exercise in science fiction were informed more by maverick instincts, than Oscar instincts. Their relationship should be put through a similar bathtub test as Nicole Kidman and her partner in Jonathan Glazer's "Birth". In other words, what would Mindy(Pam Dawber) do had she and Mork(Robin Williams) made it to their golden years?… Expand
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6
DianeMJan 1, 2009
A fantasy film that is a tribute to certain historical events, as well as New Orleans. Good performances, naturally, (especially "Queenie"), but a little long in getting to the point. My husband complained that I didn't tell him it was A fantasy film that is a tribute to certain historical events, as well as New Orleans. Good performances, naturally, (especially "Queenie"), but a little long in getting to the point. My husband complained that I didn't tell him it was a 'chick flick'.… Expand
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6
BethC.Jan 21, 2009
The good parts: the cinematography, makeup (which should win an Oscar) and the scenes with Tilda Swinton. Somehow, she made all her scenes moving and magical. But I couldn't believe Brad Pitt as a kid in an old man's body. Also, The good parts: the cinematography, makeup (which should win an Oscar) and the scenes with Tilda Swinton. Somehow, she made all her scenes moving and magical. But I couldn't believe Brad Pitt as a kid in an old man's body. Also, the settings weren't realistic enough. Pitt grew up in New Orleans under segregation, but you wouldn't know it from the movie. Similarly, he was in Russia during World War II (which began in Sept. 1939) but the war doesn't exist until America entered it over two years later. And it was just TOO long for what it had to say.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
BrianS.Apr 8, 2009
I find it intensely irritating (and telling) that the general opinion of people who saw and loved this movie was because it was not an action movie/focused on people/was completely "unique". These are the people who really don't spend I find it intensely irritating (and telling) that the general opinion of people who saw and loved this movie was because it was not an action movie/focused on people/was completely "unique". These are the people who really don't spend time watching dramas in the first place, more or less independent or relationship dramas, or never saw movies as anything but passing entertainment with friends to begin with (if you're just discovering the power of films, I really have no words to say to you). So from that alone, I can tell you that if you don't know what American Beauty or Reprise (Little Children, Six Feet Under, etc) are, you'll probably think this movie is astounding, perfect, brilliant, emotional, all of the above--who knows. To anyone else, not so much. Truly, the reason people keep saying this is because it's true: Forrest Gump 2. Both FG and BB are written by Eric Roth, and both have almost entirely parallel storylines--even characters and personalities. From a technical aspect and for the last parts, this film works itself up to a 6. I never said this was a bad film--it's just nothing special outside of the aging effects.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
KeithJJan 26, 2009
Cut this movie by 30 minutes, and show some acknowledgment by the people around Button that he's more than mildly unusual, and this movie could be an 8. I love the various times and places it depicts and many of the characters are Cut this movie by 30 minutes, and show some acknowledgment by the people around Button that he's more than mildly unusual, and this movie could be an 8. I love the various times and places it depicts and many of the characters are great. But it ultimately feels tedious.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
csw12Oct 25, 2013
Benjamin Button told an unbelievable story with acting that was superb but what was lacking was something to be felt after its over two and half hour length. The movie passed all measures with story, acting, score and scenery but never pushedBenjamin Button told an unbelievable story with acting that was superb but what was lacking was something to be felt after its over two and half hour length. The movie passed all measures with story, acting, score and scenery but never pushed the limits to make it excellent.… Expand
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6
Jules-SJul 12, 2013
First of all, I don't think the realist elements have done good to this movie. I mean, if the protagonist is meant to be fantastic why is it necessary for us to know when he was born, where is he going, what (real) wars he fought? Superman isFirst of all, I don't think the realist elements have done good to this movie. I mean, if the protagonist is meant to be fantastic why is it necessary for us to know when he was born, where is he going, what (real) wars he fought? Superman is like this movie's protagonist, he defies natural laws, like gravity for example. Benjamin Button is doing the same thing with biological laws when he rejuvenates, but despite the realistic context where he is placed, no-one seems to be so affected by his unusual nature (and that makes realistic characters behave artificially). Just pay some attention to the title: The curious case..., why case? "Cases" exist only in reality. If the movie would have dwelled in the fantastic, fictional, or whatever you call it domain of the narrative it certainly had been better.

Secondly, and more important, my opinion is that this movie doesn't eventually say much. During the almost three hours length I questioned myself about Benjamin's nature and what philosophical facts should it reveal. But as I tried and tried to build-up my logic I couldn't reach any destination. In fact, Benjamin looked like a simple, ordinary men that lives his life from start to end. He's different from us only because his appearance evolves from old men to infant child. But he is born a child and mentally he's just like us (as he admits).

All my respect to everyone in the production crew because they made a very well-done job, from special effects to acting performances. The story is the major problem here.… Expand
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5
elpMay 31, 2009
Can't fault the art direction, cinematography, or the acting, but it's three hours of one depressing scenario after another. if there's anything to take away from it it's that everything is pointless and doomed to misery, Can't fault the art direction, cinematography, or the acting, but it's three hours of one depressing scenario after another. if there's anything to take away from it it's that everything is pointless and doomed to misery, not exactly a feel-good movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
HollycMay 30, 2009
Held my attention the first third, then began to fall into tepid interest. I could tell it wanted me to care about these great moments, but I just didn't. Also came the epiphany of seeing this before, when it was called "Forrest Gump" Held my attention the first third, then began to fall into tepid interest. I could tell it wanted me to care about these great moments, but I just didn't. Also came the epiphany of seeing this before, when it was called "Forrest Gump" --- This really affected the rest of the movie for me as I was constantly comparing everything that was happening in Button to Gump (Roth is shameless, for sure). However, the direction, cinematography, VFX and Tilda Swinton were all terrific.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
5
BobbyB.Jul 26, 2009
Benjamin Button went from being elderly to middle-aged in just four years, in this film's hurry to give us a handsome, salable Brad Pitt. That's not the only thing that bothered me about "The Curious Case...". Elderly whites did Benjamin Button went from being elderly to middle-aged in just four years, in this film's hurry to give us a handsome, salable Brad Pitt. That's not the only thing that bothered me about "The Curious Case...". Elderly whites did not shake hands with blacks in the 1920s South. Men did not wear shoulder-length hair in the 1930s. Unless he was very psychic, Benjamin could not have known the long list of factors that led up to the Cate Blanchet character being hit by a cab. If the premise is Benjamin aging in reverse and growing mentally sharper each year, why does the film depart from that theme and have Benjamin getting Alzheimer's as a child? When an entire movie is built around a gimmick, I think the gimmick should be given more care than this one was. Some good performances and excellent technology, but unfortunately the movie doesn't live up to the interesting concept.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
jethroaMay 7, 2009
Another hollywood trying to be deep and profound and moving movie that just doesn't cut it. Pretty tepid, but mildly interesting.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
EliasCJun 11, 2009
Despite the seamless CGI work, this film is seriously flawed and bears little resemblance to the F. Scott short story of the same name. Very good acting does not save this overlong film. 'The film version of the 'Time Despite the seamless CGI work, this film is seriously flawed and bears little resemblance to the F. Scott short story of the same name. Very good acting does not save this overlong film. 'The film version of the 'Time Traveler's Wife', with a similar theme, promises to be better.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
KimADec 27, 2008
Brad Pitt seemed to have no way into this role. When he wasn't in his beautiful prime, his Benjamin felt like an empty cipher. The make up on the "old looking" Benjamin was distracting; as if a powdery layer was smothering not only the Brad Pitt seemed to have no way into this role. When he wasn't in his beautiful prime, his Benjamin felt like an empty cipher. The make up on the "old looking" Benjamin was distracting; as if a powdery layer was smothering not only the face, but the personality, of Brad Pitt's Benjamin. This was not a movie about a human being, but a movie about an idea. The Ideas were interesting for a time but the lack of truly interesting, felt characters could not keep those ideas alive for two and a half hours.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
DoctorTerrificDec 30, 2008
Halfway into this movie I turned to my lover and both agreed that this movie was terrific. Unfortunately this is a tale that, in my opinion, cannot be brought to a satisfying conclusion. Nice try, Fincher, but I left the theater troubled and Halfway into this movie I turned to my lover and both agreed that this movie was terrific. Unfortunately this is a tale that, in my opinion, cannot be brought to a satisfying conclusion. Nice try, Fincher, but I left the theater troubled and disappointed.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
MikeADec 26, 2008
This movie is ok, but pretty self-serving and contrived. It seems like the film makers were full of themselves, and stuffed not-so subtle subtexts into the movie. With that said, Brad Pitt and the ensemble of actors were excellent.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
MartyP.Jan 18, 2009
Entertaining enough but not great. Similar style as Forest Gump.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
LuisGFeb 18, 2009
heres a film that has all the potential of being a grand masterpiece but falls flat on its ego... fincher has a tendency to being a perfectionist ... button.. is long, tedious and lost in its attempt to being more than forrest gump with pittheres a film that has all the potential of being a grand masterpiece but falls flat on its ego... fincher has a tendency to being a perfectionist ... button.. is long, tedious and lost in its attempt to being more than forrest gump with pitt in the lead .... ZODIAC last year offered what fincher is known for a shame that the academy ignored it...… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
JamesCJun 29, 2009
All I could think of during this whole movie was "Life is like a bowl of chocolates, mmm hhmmmm" because it really brought to mind Gump, another insultingly self-important movie that got heaps o' recognition and that time has proven to All I could think of during this whole movie was "Life is like a bowl of chocolates, mmm hhmmmm" because it really brought to mind Gump, another insultingly self-important movie that got heaps o' recognition and that time has proven to be a dog. Like Ol' Gumparoo, Benjie's Buttons wants to be a "classic" really, really bad--so bad, it forgets that it has to actually have a story you care about. It's everything you've read, a minor film pretending to be a major film--gorgeous, well-acted, and yet curiously empty. Everything about the production screams "quality," and it is difficult to say where the blame lies--is it the direction? the script? Brad Pitt's odd but proven inability to lead a film? I regret to say the film is also a waste of your time--a regret only because it is at least an unjustifiable half hour too long. Were it not, it would certainly be worth a rental. If you still think Gump was a great movie, you'll like this one.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
ryancarroll88Aug 27, 2010
The movie has its little pleasures (such as the man getting struck by lightning and the tugboat captain), but it feels like the "aging-backwards" basis is no more than a playful trick to tell an otherwise normal and uninteresting (andThe movie has its little pleasures (such as the man getting struck by lightning and the tugboat captain), but it feels like the "aging-backwards" basis is no more than a playful trick to tell an otherwise normal and uninteresting (and loooonng) story.… Expand
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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5
J-ShapAug 28, 2011
Benjamin Button is a great mixed bag of a film. Despite it's many problems (length, similarity to Forrest Gump), however, aren't its undoing. The undoing comes in the form of a distinct clash of ideas, inappropriately trying to meshBenjamin Button is a great mixed bag of a film. Despite it's many problems (length, similarity to Forrest Gump), however, aren't its undoing. The undoing comes in the form of a distinct clash of ideas, inappropriately trying to mesh screenwriter Eric Roth's sentimental and wonderful view of the world with director David Fincher's cold nihilism and rewarding distance from connection. It is these two moods that tear apart Benjamin Button.… Expand
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4
SteveBJan 1, 2009
Don't believe the hype! This is not a very good movie. Similar to Forrest Gump, but less engaging. An epic tale about a boy born old, grows up and gets younger as ages, this theme has actually very little to do with the plot, and is Don't believe the hype! This is not a very good movie. Similar to Forrest Gump, but less engaging. An epic tale about a boy born old, grows up and gets younger as ages, this theme has actually very little to do with the plot, and is really a skeleton on which to hang a a rather dull, rambling story. Brad and Cate are nice to look at, but it's a snoozer with no real conclusion.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
DTJan 3, 2009
It was the same crap that gets eaten up by award judges every year. Nothing new.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
JoetheCriticJan 7, 2009
Absurdly long, I was glad it was over. The movie was nothing more of a love story, and had nothing to do with the actual reason to why he was born an old man. Don't waste your time. Too much hype for such a dull movie.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
VerminD.Jan 4, 2009
Way too long, and wreaking of Forest Gump. Also, Brad seems to have been taking acting lessons from Keanu, because his expression hardly changed throughout the whole film. I say expression, when for the most part he was expressionless, his Way too long, and wreaking of Forest Gump. Also, Brad seems to have been taking acting lessons from Keanu, because his expression hardly changed throughout the whole film. I say expression, when for the most part he was expressionless, his mug showing nothing more than a slightly confused twinge. Tilda Swinton, as normal, saved the day and acted everyone else off the screen, even though her subplot was of no consequence. A lot has been said about the CGI used during the movie. I didn… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
GailW.Feb 21, 2009
This move was poorly edited, too long, and boring. There was no chemistry between Bard Pitt and Cate Blanchette. A real disappointment - typical Hollywood schlock.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
JohnG.Dec 25, 2008
Soooo slow ... After 2 hours and 40 minutes, I still couldn't tell you what the actual story was about.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
AlexF.Jan 3, 2009
Way too long especially because nothing happens. if it had been only 2 hrs. long it would have been alot better.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
ChipLFeb 4, 2009
A poor man's Forrest Gump. Every scene tries to be heartwarming, meaningful, important, prophetic....But it comes out cold and creepy without a likable or realistic character. Brad PItt is especially unmoving and even the always capable A poor man's Forrest Gump. Every scene tries to be heartwarming, meaningful, important, prophetic....But it comes out cold and creepy without a likable or realistic character. Brad PItt is especially unmoving and even the always capable Cate Blanchett comes across as shrill and false. The worst of the "prestige" movie is all here.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
4
AnonymousJan 25, 2009
Don't fall for the hype. An average film at best. If you have the time, spend it watching Forrest Gump again and you'll be better off.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
JasonCJan 27, 2009
Most overrated movie of 2008. Extremely tedious and self-indulgent. I was looking for some type of underlying point to this whole story and couldn't find one. I have never walked out on a movie but I almost walked out on this one with Most overrated movie of 2008. Extremely tedious and self-indulgent. I was looking for some type of underlying point to this whole story and couldn't find one. I have never walked out on a movie but I almost walked out on this one with an hour left to go.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
snupaDec 28, 2008
I thought this movie was OK. it got really dragged out towards the end and got way too boring. I know people are trying to compare this to Forrest Gump....far from it
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
IanM197Oct 1, 2010
Despite the fact that this movie was trumpeted upon it's release (two years already?) it's hard to ignore that Button hasn't got much to it. It was quite the opposite to what I thought it would be and it was a very slow and far too long forDespite the fact that this movie was trumpeted upon it's release (two years already?) it's hard to ignore that Button hasn't got much to it. It was quite the opposite to what I thought it would be and it was a very slow and far too long for it's own good. More than anything else though, the movie did nothing but bore once you got past the basic premise, which is admittedly interesting.… Expand
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4
FilipeNetoMar 18, 2018
This movie was super inflated by advertising, created a huge expectation, and was partly a victim of it. They spoke of David Fincher like a first-class director, which I think he will never be. They spoke of the excellence of the cast, and inThis movie was super inflated by advertising, created a huge expectation, and was partly a victim of it. They spoke of David Fincher like a first-class director, which I think he will never be. They spoke of the excellence of the cast, and in fact only two actors (Brad Pitt, the protagonist, and Cate Blanchett, with whom he makes an unlikely romantic couple) is that really deserve this adjective. Here in Portugal, people have a saying, which states that "presumption and holy water, each takes how much wants". I think it perfectly applies to this film or, at least, to the enormous publicity that was done to it.

The film adapts a story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, which I never read to judge. The script, by Eric Roth (writer of "Forrest Gump", a film that - surprise, surprise - has some similarities with this one) is far from being extraordinary. The problem with this story is the character development, particularly the main character, with which I personally never felt any empathy. Despite being a totally different person from all others, Benjamin Button is a man who does not show who he is. He just shows what he does, where he goes, etc. We never realize why he was born old and rejuvenate, or what the relationship of this with an old clock that gives the time backwards (we do not know if such a link exists). We never know his thoughts and all the psychology, potentially rich, of a person so different from the all the rest, its never revealed. And the same with all characters. This makes this film a superficial, impersonal story, that never touches us, excites us in a more close and personal way.

Technically, its a regular film, within what Hollywood has accustomed us. The make-up effects (in particular those that aged the young Button) pleased me, as the scenarios, and how they were able to actually fit in their times, and show the passage of decades. As for the work of the actors, it's good but not excellent. I think its difficult, with so poor characters, have an inspired performance. The effort of Pitt and Blanchett, however, deserves some merit.… Expand
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3
AlanD.Jan 29, 2009
Everybody keeps talking about how this ripped off Forest Gump, which is true, but nobody talks about how it also stole a lot from the notebook (which i didn't really like in the first place) It had good special effects but like an hour Everybody keeps talking about how this ripped off Forest Gump, which is true, but nobody talks about how it also stole a lot from the notebook (which i didn't really like in the first place) It had good special effects but like an hour of the movie wasn't needed it was way too melodramatic and it was too unoriginal. so many better movies from last year. It will probably win best picture though the academy is due to make a bad pick they've been on a good streak.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
RonL.Jan 15, 2009
It never ended. It was a rehash of Gump. It was flat out boring. IIf you do want to see it wait for it on Netflix. Not worth the ordeal.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
QBeingJan 5, 2009
I agree with Mike la Salle. Long tedious, and without anything memorable. I saw three films the Day I saw button. And I had to be reminded I saw it. Nothing about it was stand out. The title describes it best. Curious. But that's it. I agree with Mike la Salle. Long tedious, and without anything memorable. I saw three films the Day I saw button. And I had to be reminded I saw it. Nothing about it was stand out. The title describes it best. Curious. But that's it. otherwise dull, and flaccid. Was happy when it ended.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
LynneK.Feb 24, 2009
i give this movie a 3 on 10, and its only because of the great make-up they made on pitt's face. i thought brad pitt's acting was horrible, as it always is, and the story wasnt intriguing at all. i wasnt captured by the story, i give this movie a 3 on 10, and its only because of the great make-up they made on pitt's face. i thought brad pitt's acting was horrible, as it always is, and the story wasnt intriguing at all. i wasnt captured by the story, because it was like a series of events happening in benjamin's life and him getting younger and younger, nothing more. The movie is only made to make viewers imagine how life would be if the clock was turning the other way, but theres no story behind the idea. Kate blanchett is a great actress, but i didnt think she had much to do with what they gave her.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
BettyLFeb 3, 2009
If you want to know what it would be like if a man was born old and then grew younger, watch this. However it is a long tedious movie experience with little redeeming qualities, great visually, but the plot lacks certain elements for a good If you want to know what it would be like if a man was born old and then grew younger, watch this. However it is a long tedious movie experience with little redeeming qualities, great visually, but the plot lacks certain elements for a good story, such as, characters that make you feel for them.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
KatieSFeb 7, 2009
Ponderous, boring. BB's reverse aging actually contributes little to the plot, since he has the mind of a young person in the beginning, and of an old person at the end, so what you're left with is just a conventional life story Ponderous, boring. BB's reverse aging actually contributes little to the plot, since he has the mind of a young person in the beginning, and of an old person at the end, so what you're left with is just a conventional life story that has no real individuating elements, just a bunch of nearly randomly assembled elements pulled out of the grabbag of movie cliches: overwrought military death scenes already a subject for parody in Tropic Thunder. The everything could have been different montage before the tragic accident. Etc. The only real unique interest in the reverse physical aging plot could have come in the last 20 years of Button's life, and there was a potentially good short movie inside this unfortunately long one. It would have involved B having a continuous relationship with his family. An interesting and courageous movie could have shown him as an experienced man in a child's body, treated like a child in society, eventually not allowed to make his own decisions, interacting with his child in the body of a child, having sex with his aging wife as a teenager until they have to stop--the conflict between desire, repulsion, and social restraint there *could* have been an amazing story. But it wasn't to be. And further it was poorly cast; Pitt and Blanchett have no chemistry and aren't plausible as a couple, and Pitt seems a little too dumb in his affect to play "simple" without becoming totally insipid and boring. I didn't like much Forrest Gump much, and in fact thought it's entire value system (Forest's disengagement is purity/Jenny's engagement is corruption) was messed up, but at least in its messed up value system it was an interesting social text. This was just maudlin kitsch.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
KevanM.Dec 25, 2008
Everything was exquisite except for the story. Very boring!!
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
EDJan 10, 2009
Way too long and uninteresting. We get no insight from the title character and do not care about either of the leads. We could not wait for this to be over.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
IgorA.Jan 7, 2009
Uninteresting and too long for it's own good. The style, acting and special effects are great but nothing really happen in it.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
NivJan 9, 2009
This film is overhyped. Acting was good but the plot is quite predictable and cliched from the start. The long 3hours runtime didnt help either for it seems the some scenes on the film are just for stalling. No one would even bother watching This film is overhyped. Acting was good but the plot is quite predictable and cliched from the start. The long 3hours runtime didnt help either for it seems the some scenes on the film are just for stalling. No one would even bother watching this film if it weren't for brad pitt and cate blanchett on the starrer.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
EmilyKFeb 11, 2009
This movie was unnecessarily long; it was well over 2 hours. This movie is extremely slow. The worst part of the movie was Cate Blanchett's narration as an old woman. Her accent was annoying and her words were barely decipherable. This This movie was unnecessarily long; it was well over 2 hours. This movie is extremely slow. The worst part of the movie was Cate Blanchett's narration as an old woman. Her accent was annoying and her words were barely decipherable. This movie tries to be more meaningful than it actually is.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
JayJayMay 4, 2009
Tries to be interesting, but only succeeds on being slow and boring.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
JimmyS.Dec 25, 2008
The film
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
PatrickK.Dec 30, 2008
For once I agree with the critics...much ado about nothing.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
DWMay 17, 2009
3 for the tech. The plot, dialog, and acting deserve almost a zero. An interminable length for one Hallmark moment after another, punctuated by annoying voiceover and a pointless wraparound story that dragged hurricane Katrina into it. And 3 for the tech. The plot, dialog, and acting deserve almost a zero. An interminable length for one Hallmark moment after another, punctuated by annoying voiceover and a pointless wraparound story that dragged hurricane Katrina into it. And just awful attempts at "folksy" southern accents. Ick.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
3
BrunoF.Jul 23, 2009
An interesting concept, but a loooong boring movie.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
3
JoelF.Dec 26, 2008
Overrated. The plot was silly and too long, the story with the dying mother and daughter was fairly uninteresting. Acting was bad almost across the board. But the worst part was that the director beat the audience over the head with his Overrated. The plot was silly and too long, the story with the dying mother and daughter was fairly uninteresting. Acting was bad almost across the board. But the worst part was that the director beat the audience over the head with his 'aging and dying' theme. I realize that this is the core of the movie, but there's a way to embed your theme tastefully, and this fell far short.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
DanB.Dec 27, 2008
Over-long and boring. No real urgency to get your blood up. Very slow and pedantic.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
lususgreeneMay 11, 2011
Dissappointing. This is one of those movies that pretends to be deep but just isnt. The whole plot just seems to be constructed for Brad Pitt to get younger and better looking as the movie progresses. However there is no reason for this otherDissappointing. This is one of those movies that pretends to be deep but just isnt. The whole plot just seems to be constructed for Brad Pitt to get younger and better looking as the movie progresses. However there is no reason for this other than to increase box office sales. Forest Gump did not need an unoffcial follow up.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
gzayas91Jul 24, 2018
This was too weird for my taste. I didn't like when near the end that shows Benjamin died. I didn't read the book and I have no interest of reading it. Personally, is not my favorite.
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3
AkashVijayJan 19, 2015
Benjamin Button is well directed, well lit and filled with some beautiful imagery. Almost everything else is a problem. There are several dramatic moments in the film, enough to fool an audience into thinking that something profound isBenjamin Button is well directed, well lit and filled with some beautiful imagery. Almost everything else is a problem. There are several dramatic moments in the film, enough to fool an audience into thinking that something profound is happening. But when you start asking the "why's?" the entire premise breaks down and the film has no answers. The events that unfold have no purpose, other than to create an "earnest" atmosphere. The characters are portrayed in a monotonous and self-obsessed manner and Cate Blanchett, despite here far-fetched talent, turns out to be the most annoying character on screen. The aspect of Button that separates it from most nonsensical melodramas of its sort is that, at its centre it's about a man living life backwards. The most disappointing part of it is that, after watching the movie, I learnt almost nothing about it, certainly not anything I couldn't have predicted myself. Button is no more than a sappy and pretentious remake of Forrest Gump, the only difference is that it has been done backwards this time.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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2
aideenMFeb 10, 2009
Boring, trite--with absolutely no character development or insight. Nearly 3 hours of tedium with excellent special effects. But who goes to the movies for merely special effects?
0 of 2 users found this helpful
2
JohnHartmanJan 16, 2009
This entire movie is like the ending of "The return of the King", multiplied by 1000.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
TMJan 5, 2009
Very long and uninteresting. While we observe the character throughout his life, there is exactly one line about how it is for him to live this backward life. Except for a few scenes in this three hour movie, there is little to differentiate Very long and uninteresting. While we observe the character throughout his life, there is exactly one line about how it is for him to live this backward life. Except for a few scenes in this three hour movie, there is little to differentiate this from any other movie about the life of a mostly uninteresting person. Button's character may be uninteresting, but the female lead is just unlikable so the romance narative becomes unbelievable and unable to hold the movie together.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
SebastianSAug 24, 2009
Just boring. Exactly like forrest gump, except his travels weren't interesting.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
FionamanJan 15, 2009
Overlong, self indulgent, cliche ridden dreck. It gets a 2 because the cinematography was good. The acting was soulless, the score generic and overwrought. Everything about this film failed. Absolutely hated it.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
WilliamT.Jan 4, 2009
It took $10 and nearly 3 hours for Hollywood to tell me to cherish every moment no matter what the circumstances of your life? What bloated fatuousness..."The Curious Case of Dick Button" would have been as uplifting. The 2/10 rating is for It took $10 and nearly 3 hours for Hollywood to tell me to cherish every moment no matter what the circumstances of your life? What bloated fatuousness..."The Curious Case of Dick Button" would have been as uplifting. The 2/10 rating is for the serviceable technical aspects of the film.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
BecquerMFeb 15, 2009
Only for its visual achievement does it deserve any regard, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" is Oscar-winning-cinema at its most cliche (it could, possibly, rival the likes of Titanic); it is a drawn-out story that reveals little about Only for its visual achievement does it deserve any regard, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" is Oscar-winning-cinema at its most cliche (it could, possibly, rival the likes of Titanic); it is a drawn-out story that reveals little about the human condition, the nature of relationships - and, by extension, love -, or what life would be like aging backwards, thereby crushing F. Scott Fitzgerald's quaint story that is packed with so much meaning.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
CedricC.Dec 27, 2008
I love the soundtrack, and the cinematography/visuals (not involving people) were attractive. I just really disliked the Daisy character (all iterations of) and without that buy-in, the movie is painful (asides from the music and non-peopled I love the soundtrack, and the cinematography/visuals (not involving people) were attractive. I just really disliked the Daisy character (all iterations of) and without that buy-in, the movie is painful (asides from the music and non-peopled visuals). Also, I thought Benjamin Button's depiction was very uneven and that there was no real point to the movie. I was disappointed by the film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
DickS.Dec 27, 2008
If it weren't for the special effects, it would be one star. Self-indulgent, pointless, tedious, disjointed...a horrible film!
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2
JohnSApr 18, 2009
As others have said. It deserves at least 2 for the make up and effects. But that is it. What a bore. The guy knows he is going to age in reverse but does nothing with his life. He was a loser. Aside from ading in reverse, he was not the As others have said. It deserves at least 2 for the make up and effects. But that is it. What a bore. The guy knows he is going to age in reverse but does nothing with his life. He was a loser. Aside from ading in reverse, he was not the kind of person that you make a movie about. He was dull, got his money from inheritance. Did nothing to improve society. And was not even intriguing in some quirky way. Go watch Adventureland!… Expand
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2
txrangersfan72Sep 19, 2010
Before I launch into the many negative things I have to write about this movie, I'm going to start with the positive elements of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

First, it was cinematically stunning. Visually, it was breathtaking. TheBefore I launch into the many negative things I have to write about this movie, I'm going to start with the positive elements of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

First, it was cinematically stunning. Visually, it was breathtaking. The money spent on this movie was worth it...to the eyes.

Second...well, there isn't a second positive thing I can point out.

That's right. I am so disappointed in this film that I am literally typing this minutes after leaving the theater.

Where to begin...

There are numerous small things that bothered me about the movie, but didn't necessarily HURT the film. It was entirely too long. And for the length, there was never enough to make me care about the characters. However, the main small component that bothered me is Brad Pitt's complete inability to act. Not that the script called for him to do much, other than look beautiful when he reached the right age, and he did that wonderfully. However, he had very little script with which recite, so when he did, it was mostly in soft-spoken mumbles. And he pulled it off just fine. However, if he gets nominated for an Oscar, I will officially boycott it. There is NOTHING Brad Pitt did in this movie for which he should be nominated. It's pathetic enough that he got a Golden Globe nomination. He did a fine job, but I can name double-digit numbers of performances that deserve recognition over this one.

Those small things didn't destroy the film for me though.

No, what I absolutely hated about this movie was...the script.

The screenplay, based on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, which I have not read but I hear is SO different than this movie that it was hard to even compare the two. The screenplay was written by Forrest Gump penner, Eric Roth. And how he got away with submitting this script proves that all Hollywood is interested in doing is rehashing popular movies or concepts from the past. And, like lambs to the slaughter, viewers are being sucked in.

So let's compare the job Eric Roth did in Forrest Gump and the work he did with The Curious Case of Benjamin Button...


Forrest Gump centers around the life story of a very a unique male character, complete with all the lessons learned therein. So does Benjamin Button. In both, that central male character narrates his own story.

Forrest Gump has a very strong motherly character that has a very strong influence on the type of person he becomes. So does Benjamin Button. In fact, they both even have a mother-coined catch phrase repeated throughout the movie. In Forrest, "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get." In Button, momma always said, "You never know what's coming for you."

Forrest Gump had "Lieutenant Dan" on the SS Jenny. Benjamin had "Captain Mike" on the SS Chelsea.

Forrest is in love with Jenny who enters, exits and re-enters his life on a regular basis. Benjamin is in love with Daisy who enters, exits and re-enters his life on a regular basis.

Forrest becomes insecure and scared when he realizes he's about to be a father with Jenny. Benjamin becomes insecue and scared when he realizes he's about to be a father with Daisy.

Forrest interacts with historical figures throughout his story and finds himself in wartime situations. Benjamin finds himself in wartime situations and crossing paths with seemingly historical figures, like the first woman to swim the English Channel and Daisy herself being the first American to be invited to dance with the Bolshoi.

Lieutenant Dan talks about trying out his "sea legs" when Forrest asks him why he's on the boat. When Benjamin wants to join Captain Mike's boating crew, Captain Mike asks him if he has his sea legs.

This one may sound like a stretch, but how often does a script call for a character to announce so blatantly that they need to go pee. Well, Forrest did unexpectedly while in a conversation with John F Kennedy, while Daisy unexpectedly announces to Benjamin in the middle of a conversation that SHE needs to go pee.

A couple of times in Forrest Gump, a floating feather takes center-screen symbolically representing how we float through life and how things happen because they are meant to happen. A couple of times in Benjamin Button, a hummingbird unexpectedly takes center-screen to symbolically represent...well, you get the picture.

I could go on, but I'm too disgusted to.

It's plagiarism...or is it just Mad Libs with all the main subjects and names replaced with new ones?

I'm sorry...a good movie starts with a good script. And if the SAME screenwriter writes essentially the SAME script from a previously popular movie, feeds it to me and thinks I'm simple enough to swallow it, I'm going to notice it. And it will remove any ability for me enjoy the film. No matter how many intentional heart-tugging moments this film tries toshove down our throats, I wasn't able to be affected by any emotion in the movie or connect with any of the characters.… Expand
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1
JamesH.Feb 6, 2009
The film seemed to have no point other than to show authentic costumes and sets from its various time periods. I felt no connection to the characters during the almost 3 hour running time. Did the story have a point?
0 of 2 users found this helpful
1
JasonRJun 20, 2009
I really didn't like it, reminded me alot of the notebook (which I hated) and a wannabe Forest Gump. Personally I think the movie had some weak morals, not to get all preachy. I couldn't wait for it to end, because of my I really didn't like it, reminded me alot of the notebook (which I hated) and a wannabe Forest Gump. Personally I think the movie had some weak morals, not to get all preachy. I couldn't wait for it to end, because of my girlfriend. It's only enduring quality was wondering what would happen to Mr. Button, although I really didn't care. Pure Cheese.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
SteveA.Jan 15, 2009
This gets a 1 for Special Effects, a 0 for script, direction and audience-numbing duration. My nephew left after 50 minutes. I envied him for the next long, long 2 hours. Unmitigated codswallop.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
KyleW.Jan 23, 2009
This movie takes an idea that existed in a short story, and went all the most obvious ways with it. there was nothing special about this story. there are other stories that involve a man aging backwards that are done with such emotion thatThis movie takes an idea that existed in a short story, and went all the most obvious ways with it. there was nothing special about this story. there are other stories that involve a man aging backwards that are done with such emotion that watching this movie was extremely disappointing. also, the characters have no personality or redeeming characteristics.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
EugeneSMar 26, 2009
This movie is appalling, 2 hours and 45 minutes of pure monotony. Nothing particularly riveting happens. The plot rolls on at a snails pace with absolutely pointless asides. It's trying very hard to be a mix between Forest Gump and This movie is appalling, 2 hours and 45 minutes of pure monotony. Nothing particularly riveting happens. The plot rolls on at a snails pace with absolutely pointless asides. It's trying very hard to be a mix between Forest Gump and perhaps Titanic without any of the good things those movies had. Best avoided.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
scottDec 29, 2008
Fincher has done to Fitzgerald what Burton did to Irving, why bother calling it an adaptation at all? This flick is dull and Brad Pitt has all the passion of wet cardboard.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
HelenaO.Jan 24, 2009
This was the worst movie I have seen in my life. I am so mad that its getting all the Oscar nominations, because Brad Pitt can't act, and the actor couldn't string together a good story to save his life. What was with the guyThis was the worst movie I have seen in my life. I am so mad that its getting all the Oscar nominations, because Brad Pitt can't act, and the actor couldn't string together a good story to save his life. What was with the guy getting struck by lighting? Did that have a point? And please do NOT compare it to Forrest Gump, because that was a masterpiece, and Button was garbage.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
PauloA.Apr 3, 2009
I was first afraid to watch this (child) but i turned from afraid to ashamed.i mean its like watching a cocoon turn into a butterfly. the promotion of it is getting younger with age, but i just DO NOT FEEL THAT.(SPOILERS) I MEAN I was first afraid to watch this (child) but i turned from afraid to ashamed.i mean its like watching a cocoon turn into a butterfly. the promotion of it is getting younger with age, but i just DO NOT FEEL THAT.(SPOILERS) I MEAN SAILING?(SPOILERS END), come on man,everyone of my family members who went with me agreed that it was too long.my dad even said you could use a DVD of it as a torturing device.if you ask me,i think the director foucused more on the sexual scenes than anything else. i mean come on.but then again,its all me, im sorry if i said somethings that you liked about the movie(not sarcasam).but really, its just too long and meaningless for its own good.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
JeffFJun 1, 2009
Excruciating. Long. Like Forrest Gump without the humor or wit.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
RyanKJun 5, 2009
I was no longer curious after this movie wasted 2 hours of my life. One of the worst movies I have ever seen.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
JenniferM.Jan 2, 2009
This is worst movie I have ever seen. Painfully boring and slow moving. Where the only interesting characters developed during the tugboat scenes and the war they were too soon gone and all we were left with was Cate Blanchett as Katherine This is worst movie I have ever seen. Painfully boring and slow moving. Where the only interesting characters developed during the tugboat scenes and the war they were too soon gone and all we were left with was Cate Blanchett as Katherine Hepburn playing Daisy and Brad Pitt as Forrest Gump playing Benjamin Buttons. Horrible!!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
DWillyJan 2, 2009
This film went from dull to infuriating to jaw-droppingly laughable. There were many others in the theater with me also guffawing out loud, so I know, regardless of the "Million Dollar Baby" like wildly favorable reviews, not everyone This film went from dull to infuriating to jaw-droppingly laughable. There were many others in the theater with me also guffawing out loud, so I know, regardless of the "Million Dollar Baby" like wildly favorable reviews, not everyone swallows this tripe. Pitt is totally clueless about what to do with his part, but then so apparently was the screenwriter who has his droning narration at one point launch into a godlike knowingness of events his character couldn't possibly be aware of. Even the great Kate Blanchette makes a fool of herself. It's sad to think of all the wonderful human stories that could have been told with the money spent on this clockwork mess and what is says about an era that embraces it.… Expand
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