reviews: January 2004 Archives

Well, the trifecta of depressing movies is complete. Sean Penn and Tim Robbins both turn in excellent performances in their respective roles, but I'm beginning to wonder if Hollywood has forgotten how to make happy endings. The movie's setting, story, and its commentary on vigilantism all borrow heavily from 1996's Sleepers (right down to the ubiquitous presence of Kevin Bacon), which I think, in the end, is a much better movie. The Oscar buzz surrounding the acting in this one is understandable, but if you are looking for a even more powerful story, and more interesting characters, rent Sleepers.

If you enjoy feeling like you need therapy, by all means, go see this film. Cold Mountain was positively cheery by comparison. The story is compelling, however. It is essentially two overlapping Greek tragedies, with the protagonist in each serving as the other's antagonist. The result is that you find yourself rooting for both sides (here's a hint: neither side wins). But despite superb acting by two Academy Award winners, Jennifer Connelly and Ben Kingsley, I can't bring myself to recommend that anyone see this movie because it is just so incredibly sad.