A little girl grows up in 'Ballad'

It's always good when a film comes along that is not only original but also leaves you a bit puzzled when the end credits start to roll. "The Ballad of Jack and Rose" does just this. While this film doesn't leave unanswered questions and doesn't set out to confuse the viewer with lots of twists and turns, it is a film with a very complex look at morality. \nDaniel Day-Lewis stars as Jack Slavin, an aging hippie with a failing heart who lives on an island in his abandoned 1960s commune with his only daughter, Rose. The opening moments of the film show the duo at peace in their little secluded life. They shuffle through the daily chores with smiles; share moments staring up at the clouds and even talk about basic bridge engineering (Jack's idea of home-schooling for his daughter.) Eventually, however, we realize that life isn't exactly perfect and that Jack is sick, and probably doesn't have long to live.\nIn an attempt to think of Rose's future, Jack invites his secret lover Kathleen (Catherine Keener) and her two sons from "the mainland" to come live with him in the commune. Right away there is static as jealousy erupts and Rose begins a rebellious cycle to try and shoo off the unwelcome guests. She hits on Kathleen's oldest son Rodney after spying on her father in bed. Later Rose cuts off her long hair and starts to dress like most rebellious teenagers. The problem is that Rose is not an ordinary teenager.\nAs the tensions grow Jack tries to confront Rose about her behavior but finds it difficult because he sees a bit of himself in her actions. He finds it amusing when Rose brings a loaded gun into his bedroom in an attempt to scare Kathleen, and insists that Rose is perfectly fine when asked if she shouldn't be sent to a psychiatrist. However, as time passes, Jack begins to realize that his idea of a perfect life may not have been right or fair for Rose and his only daughter may be troubled. \n"The Ballad of Jack and Rose" is a film about remorse, knowing your responsibilities, and love. Rose loves her father almost to the point of incest, but does so because she does not know any other kind of love. Jack believes in a pure life without the problems of normal society, but seems to have forgotten the reasons for his choice of lifestyle, not to mention his daughter's well-being. \nThe DVD has no features whatsoever (a commentary track by Lewis and/or his director and wife Rebecca Miller would have been nice.) The film features stellar acting and tells an interesting story. Aspects of the film will not be for everyone due to some scenes that may be perceived as "just too weird," but this shouldn't be discouraging. The characters are fascinating, the storyline is unique and once again Day-Lewis gives a flawless performance.