CLundmark

Yeah, sure, you know how it's going to end. Yes, it has all been done before. But the heart of this snob turned sweetheart story is relayed with such charm and grace by Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russel, and supported by such a strong cast (Roddy McDowall among others), that it is enjoyable none-the-less.

Movie snobs, insisting on original plots (as if there really are any) might not love this flick. But anyone who can appreciate proven talent in a good-natured comedy will find these 2 hours time well spent. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes to smile.

This movie might be worth watching if your only alternatives are

infomercials and Full House reruns. It has its moments, as many

others have reported. In a way, however, it would have been better

without Roberts, Gandolfini and Pitt since it is depressing to watch

them in such a sub-par feature. It was trying to be a smooth

hollywood version of a gritty western/gangster story, and as a

result, was laughable at times. All the actors, including those

playing rough and tumble guntoting Mexican gangsters have

bright, freshly bleached teeth. The many inconsistencies and

irregularities between the plot and the production are overly

distracting unless you are blessed with the ability to overlook

them.

I am an American movie-goer who really enjoyed this movie; The

story of two musically gifted sisters becoming endowed with

themselves, their talents, and their illnesses.

There are a few reviews posted here discussing the "pointlessness" of this film, criticizing details, and even posting

downright negative reviews. However, I promise that if you enjoy

getting to know a cast of characters (decidedly different than

getting to know the actors), this is a fabulous movie. Hilary &

Jackie has a solid plot, but isn't about the story. It is about the

characters; Real life sisters given unique talents under extreme,

yet common, circumstances.

If you have any empathy at all, this movie's ability to place you in

each sister's very different shoes is remarkable. Both Hilary's and

Jackie's viewpoint is understandable, yet I couldn't help but have

an opinion, which shifted as each scene progressed. Indeed

Jackie was very ill, and Hilary unusually accommodating. Maybe

they shared their illness, to varying degrees, which again, was

presented as a very touching insight into their psyche. The

flashbacks were very effective, and the entire production extremely

well done. Their mother couldn't look any more like the two of them

combined. Bravo!

Can you tell I liked it? Let me add that each actor's performance

was remarkable. However, Emily Watson's performance was truly

extraordinary. I can't believe another reviewer criticized her cello

playing scenes. Although not a cellist, I found her scenes with the

cello to be extremely believable, relevant, and profound. The best

American actress up for this role would have never portrayed

those scenes with a fraction of the dedication.

If you are looking for an interesting, thought-provoking, well-done

character study of a movie, Hilary and Jackie is top notch, no

matter how the actress might hold her bow.

p.s. Are there any limits to the talent of James Frain? Why isn't he

a household name??? Maybe he didn't study enough the finger

movements of a musician???