James Snyder

My wife read the book, so, as a treat, I suggested we have a date night. Having looked at a couple of reviews on a decaying fruit/vegetable site, I did not have great expectations. However, from beginning to end, I found myself drawn into a rich and beautiful piece of art. Like the bird in the painting, I was unable to move from my seat, chained by the production from the masterful vision of the film’s creators. Perhaps I benefited from not having read the book, but my wife loved the film as well. She did not expect a two hour movie to represent an 800 page novel in any other way than to be a fine and moving experience on its own merits. She got that. The cinematography was gorgeous and created effects and moods that enhanced the story in both subtle and dramatic ways. It was quite moving. The acting was brilliant, and, according to my wife, the casting was superb. I had no problem following the story and felt the pacing aided in giving me moments of absorption and moments of heart racing intensity. There were several scenes that were simply jarring. I had time to contemplate the timelessness of life within life and other themes both broad and specific. It’s worth seeing with an open mind when you’re in the mood to allow your intellectual juices to percolate.