michael_asbridge

A good cast... A good idea but turns out it is flawed as hypnosis is not allowed as evidence in courts. So many good actors and they are all acting so badly! So why did they all get attracted to this mess... And yes it has its good points such as lighting etc... But ultimately I wondered two things.... How could so much talent lead to such a bizarre mess? What is that accent that Nigel Hawthorne is putting on? He is/was a great actor and so what is that accent all about? It is impossible to identify? What was he trying to do? Maybe it is his subtle indication as if to say to us: 'I've got involved with a turkey so here's a crap accent to go with it!'

This film is one of those rare treats that you see on a TV channel from time to time. The plot is a standard and unsurprising affair but what sets it apart is James Woods' sardonic, cynical and hilarious portrayal of a tough, world weary cop who has no time for 'do-gooders' and over sensitive types. It just goes to show that the talented input of one actor can turn an unremarkable film into something special. Cinematic magic... If you liked the Onion Fields or is role in any number of films that would otherwise have been pants then you will like this film. Long may he continue to be on of the movie business's greatest assets...

This film requires some effort so don't go to see it if you fancy something purely entertaining rather than intellectually challenging - depends on your mood!

This film is funny and moving and thought provoking and puts itself out in the demillitarized zone of the creators and the viewers equally.

This film is (more than many others) what you make of it. And that is credit to the script writer and director who have trodden the line well between imposing ideas on you; and letting you interpret the spaces in the film.

The two central characters played by Adam Sandler and Emily Watson are dysfunctional but honourable people who are making their way in the world despite their personality flaws.

Their personalities contain stalking and violent tendencies (Emily and Adam respectively) but they are not to be judged on their behaviour entirely but rather on what is motivating their behaviour and how good they are to people around them.

Other characters such as the Mattress Man and the Phone Sex girl are dysfunctional too, but they lack the redeeming feature of sincerely trying to be good people. This is instructional in what makes us all tick without exception - we are all weird/individuals: but what saves us from grotesqueness is trying (and succeeding ideally!) to do the right thing.

The music score, mix of reality film and fantasy colour sequences are startling, moving and hypnotic. This film, like any earnest film that is trying to say something about people's lives rather than just to entertain, can be accused of being 'worthy' and 'neurotic'; or it can be praised for being 'liberating' and 'consoling'. Ultimately this film for me was moving, pioneering and memorable and all those who made it and watch it will share an experience that is of some considerable value to them.

Oh and I really fancy Emily Watson so I guess I am biased! And Adam Sandler is really showing a great range in this movie.

Then again I am not entirely biased as I saw 'The Waterboy' and Adam Sandler in that (just like Jim Carrey) can be hugely irritating or hugely impressive depending on the vehicle - they should both take a look at Robin Williams (as a previous generation equivalent) and realise that when they are playing to their strengths they are great and when not they are a bit irritating ('least to this reviewer).

Enjoy this film in your own way and don't let me influence you : )