Silver Linings Playbook is a romantic comedy-drama film directed by David O. Russell, based on the novel of the same name by Matthew Quick. The film centres around Pat Solatano Jr. (Bradley Cooper), a former teacher who was recently discharged from a mental institution after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. He moves back in with his parents Dolores (Jacki Weaver) and Pat Sr. (Robert De Niro) in Philadelphia and tries to put his life back together.
One of Pat's main goals is to reconcile with his estranged wife, Nikki (Brea Bee). However, his attempts to win her back are complicated by the fact that she has a restraining order against him. In order to stay close to Nikki, Pat befriends her sister, Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), who is dealing with her own emotional issues after the death of her husband.
As Pat and Tiffany spend more time together, they start to develop a unique relationship that helps them both navigate their challenges. Pat is also determined to get back in shape and compete in a dance competition, which he believes will impress Nikki and prove that he has changed for the better.
Throughout the film, Pat struggles with his mental health and his relationships with his family, friends and Nikki. But with the help of Tiffany and his newfound passion for dancing, Pat begins to find hope and a sense of purpose in his life.
Silver Linings Playbook was released in 2012 and received critical acclaim for its performances, writing, direction and depiction of mental illness. Jennifer Lawrence won an Academy Award for her role as Tiffany, and the film was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Bradley Cooper), Best Supporting Actor (Robert De Niro) and Best Adapted Screenplay.