Very well written, the cast and acting are superb as are the locations, wardrobe, music, story and histrionics.
Edward Norton's portrayal of the gifted yet suffering private detective, Lionel Essrog, in and of itself, is a tremendous accomplishment.
He portrays the afflicted Essrog, with such a great humanness and compassion that it is almost impossible not to be totally taken with him.
The story, although complex at times, keeps the viewers interested throughout. The ensemble cast acting is all first rate.
I wish Hollywood would make more pictures of this caliber.