I’m not a big football guy, never got the point of the game, let alone the rules or team names. So obviously I’m an anomaly in the heart of Texas where football is king.  In the brilliant drama, “Silver Linings Playbook”, the Philadelphia Eagles are an essential part of the story and the film finally gave me a reason to care about people tossing around the ol’ pigskin. But that’s not the only perfect thing about this movie, not by a long shot.

Patrick Salitino (Bradley Cooper) is a man diagnosed with bipolar disorder. He’s been put through the wringer lately, with him being put in an institution and his wife cheating on him. When he’s finally released, he gains a new lease on life and decides to win back his wife. However, the appearance of an infamous troublemaker named Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence) causes new feelings and talents to burst forth, giving Patrick a chance at finding a silver lining in his life.

I don’t think Bradley Cooper got the memo that he was supposed to disappear after “The Hangover” flicks and the occasional action flick. Instead, he shows genuine acting ability in this unique role, giving Patrick sympathy and humanity despite his various actions that could put such feelings in jeopardy. He really brings Patrick to life, making him one of 2012’s most fascinating cinematic characters.

However, the biggest surprise may be Jennifer Lawrence as Tiffany. When I first heard of her taking the role, I immediately thought of her as too young for such a part, especially since the only acting I’d seen her in was “X-Men: First Class” and the abysmal “The Hunger Games” (I haven’t seen “Winter’s Bone”) But, WOW! She blew me away, bringing humor and surprisingly angry emotion to the table. An unexpected turn for her, and one that elevates the movie from it’s already fantastic stature. This role easily cements her as one of Hollywood’s great leading ladies.

Also, major kudos to Robert De Niro, who takes on his first good movie in years. He truly shows what’s been missing in his more recent film roles, making the gig as Patrick’s father one that’s both unexpected and intriguing. He’s an odd creature in the movie, one that’s much different than what you would normally expect.

David O. Russell’s, director of “I Heart Huckabees” and “The Fighter”, shows true craftsmanship here, both in writing and directing the movie. I was impressed with how he staged some dance sequences in the third act, letting humor and emotion seep into every pose and movement. Similarly, his writing is sharp, giving each character multiple layers and depth that make them endlessly fascinating. He also is good at keeping the plot unpredictable, making sure the audience is kept on it’s toes throughout.

The story of a person overcoming impossible odds permeates most cinema, but in “Silver Linings Playbook”, the odds truly feel unmountable. His bipolar disorder gives Patrick frequent rage and with Tiffany prone to similar outbursts, the two become an unlikely pair that are a joy to watch. A great slice of cinema, “Silver Linings Playbook” is a different kind of film, filled with delightful performances and stupendous writing.

Now, if only some of the greatness Bradley Cooper brings here could be brought to “The Hangover: Part III” coming May 24, 2013.