Many comparisons can be made between the movie “Crazy Heart” and last year’s breakout film “The Wrestler.” Both are excellent dramas that feature severely flawed—yet endearing—main characters, heartbreaking stories and a sense of optimism amidst hardship.

Led by the exceedingly talented Jeff Bridges, “Crazy Heart” succeeds because of the believability of the performances and the way it effortlessly documents the trials and tribulations of its main character.

Bad Blake (Bridges) is an aging country singer who has had many personal setbacks. As an alcoholic with several failed marriages, he is barely making ends meet by playing shows in bowling alleys and saloons. Blake is losing his relevance as a one-time star, which is only exacerbated by the Brad Paisley-like success of his former protégé, Tommy Sweet (Colin Farrell).  Despite nearly self-destructing several times, he is someone who loves what he does and never lets his situation get the best of him.

These qualities persuade journalist Jean (Maggie Gyllenhaal) to take a chance on Blake. Their relationship is both a source of inspiration and pain for Blake, as his old habits come back to bite him in the worst possible ways. However, upon realizing his mistakes, the country singer decides to get his life back in order, giving the film a redemptive quality.Bridges’ heart-wrenching performance has “Oscar” written all over it. He injects emotional depth and an ungodly amount of grit into the character.

Gyllenhaal does a great job portraying a broken, single mom, who just wants someone to treat her right. Farrell’s performance as the star that wants to help his mentor, and Robert Duvall’s performance as Wayne, round things out with aplomb.

“Crazy Heart” pulls you in and doesn’t let go. It is a striking achievement and one that will undoubtedly withstand the test of time.