adrienne_aline

Jack Nicholson's character resembles both a child and someone almost dead inside an aging body. However, as a woman, it was noticeable to me and offensive that all the women were harsh toward the men. Even the daughter looked at her father as a money source even though he was trying very hard to connect. Also, there seemed no point in Kathy Bates (54 years old at the time and not exactly a beauty queen in her heyday) getting fully naked other then (according to the reviews here and Jack Nicholson's character's reaction) to add a crude laugh factor. Still, it's a poignant film that shines light on meaninglessness and wastefulness of people's lives. I don't know how anyone can resist shedding a tear or getting a quivering lip at the end.

I found this gem quite by accident. It was an enjoyable surprise. What is our government doing with all the money it takes involuntarily from its citizens? This movie reveals encroaching invasion of privacy and the effects of uncontrolled power over other people. It shines a spotlight on infringement of liberties and the inevitable injustice and even death it causes. Will Smith's character accidentally becomes involved and his character is both mundane and heroic. Although there are some real moments of suspense, I get the impression that the movie is rushed through, that it needed more work. However the plot is daring and important and overall worth the watch.