"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" is a 2008 American fantasy romantic drama film directed by David Fincher.
The storyline by Eric Roth and Robin Swicord is loosely based on the 1922 short story of the same name by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The film stars Brad Pitt as Benjamin Button, a man who ages in reverse, and Cate Blanchett as his love interest Daisy throughout his life. The film also features Taraji P. Henson, Julia Ormond, Jason Flemyng, Elias Koteas, and Tilda Swinton in supporting roles.
The film follows Benjamin's life story, beginning in 1918 New Orleans when he is born with the appearance and ailments of an elderly man and ages in reverse. As Benjamin grows younger, he experiences the events of the 20th century and forms a decades-long relationship with Daisy. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the human experience of aging.
"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" was released in North America on December 25, 2008 to positive reviews, with praise for Fincher's directing, Pitt's performance, production values, and visual effects. The film was a box office success, grossing $335.8 million worldwide against its $167 million budget. It received a leading 13 Academy Award nominations at the 81st Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Fincher, Best Actor for Pitt, and Best Supporting Actress for Taraji P. Henson, and won three, for Best Art Direction, Best Makeup, and Best Visual Effects.
The film is recognized for its unique premise, emotional storytelling, and technical achievements in aging Pitt's character. "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" is considered one of the best films of 2008 and a significant work in David Fincher's filmography