Paul Myers

In many ways a stage play setting Oppenheimer's Murphy against Strauss's Downey Jnr, with Oppenheimer as the good guy.. For me the immense consequence of the Manhattan Project centered on Los Alamos and directed by Oppenheimer was somehow lost. Deciphering this overlong persecution of the central character mostly through courtroom flashbacks of his life story diminished all context. Color flashbacks contrasting with b&w congressional sessions or security clearance hearings later in Oppenheimer and Strauss's narratives were clever but pointless. A far better courtroom/trial stage play and film - in which context is never lost or diminished is Breaker Morant.

Very watchable even if you may have to overcome the golfing metaphor - as a likely deterrent - if you don't know golf.. The production, photography, soundtrack, acting all topnotch sometimes almost as camourflage for lack of substance.. Charlize Theron in another period piece and Rachel Portman's soundtrack - along with a lingering sense of nostalgia make it slightly reminiscent of Cider House Rules - probably a more affecting film. Bobby Jones and Walther Hagen the real life golfing legends were beautifully portrayed. Matt Damon's Junuh losing direction and purpose in the Great War is somewhat cliched - and the fairy tale caddy Bagger Vance a little bit cartoon and caricature. J Michael Moncrief was excellent as Junuh's loyal child guardian.

An outstanding film. Its overindulgence in certain ambient qualities make up the heart and soul of this production - particularly the sets, photography and musical score. John Irving created a superb script from another of his excellent and lengthy novels. The acting is wonderful. Michael Caine as the administering doctor and father figure for the orphanage - crying outside the dormitory - while eavesdropping on the children as they try to make sense of Fuzzy's departure - is heart rending.