The much-lauded drama based on Matthew Quick’s novel, in which Oscar-nominee Bradley Cooper portrays a man struggling to cope with bi-polar disorder, was also strongly influenced by the director’s own challenges in managing Matthew’s life-long battle with bi-polar disorder. Russell – who won best screenplay, best director and best feature at the beachside indie-film fete – was openly moved by the day’s events, and said specifically the outpouring of support he’s received since making his family’s own ordeal public has been the most rewarding part of the film’s success. Matthew, an actor who appeared in Silver Linings (he’s the neighborhood kid who shows up repeatedly wanting to interview the family for a mental-health project he’s doing for school) said doing the film was so meaningful because he’s been able to inspire “so many people who have these challenges.” Matthew added, “It was a really big experience seeing myself on screen with the legend, Robert DeNiro.” Russell said the film’s blending of humor and intense dramatic moments was a key to ensuring the audiences felt connected to the characters. (“Life is sad and funny, that’s why it works,” he said). And he also took a moment to thank Matthew’s mother for her help. “Matt’s mom, Janet Grillo, did so much for the family. And this [award] is for her, too.”
