Peter Hamblysmith

One of my favorite films and one of a tiny handful I have watched over again. Loved the tense relationship between two principle characters. Still highly topical, about decimation of the rain forest and the loss of potentially medicinal plant species. An involving film. Must watch it yet again.

Neeson is always watchable and he excells as a bottled up, world weary hit man, in this 1970 Irish troubles, period piece. Cerian Hinds too always delights and his portayal of a genial, deceptivly 'knowing' Garda works well, as does his maybe, unlikely freindship with the hit man, of whom he must surely always have been suspicious. The plot is a tad light though, and the final scene is curiously unsatisfying. I think this film was a missed opportuity to explain the unpardonable violence of the period and also the sometimes casual relationships between those who could allow life or bring death; if you prefer, between saints and sinners. Highly watchable but missed the 5* magic button.

One of the few romantic movies that truly grabs your emotions and holds you tightly throughout the entire film. The music...well, everyone knows 'Shallows' by now, is exhilarating and moving, and makes the film. If you haven't seen it yet, then you must and make sure you choose the right time to enjoy to the full. Be sure to have a handkerchief with you!

Yes, its luxurious and glitzy and at times absorbing, but so clichéd and it's anachronistic unworldess is quite disconcerting. This series will undoubtedly be popular. Slush luxury and intrigue always make for popular viewing, and why not, but I think its a mised opportunity.