Outstanding

Rating: Null/10 (27 January 2002)

For me, the greatest achievement in filmmaking is when actor, director, and writer (along with supporting cast and crew) collaborate on a work that captivates the viewer for long after he leaves the theater. A BEAUTIFUL MIND is thoroughly-engrossing as it showcases one of our most versatile actors in the business today. Russell Crowe's range will never cease to amaze. He'll take a part in GLADIATOR, that 15 years ago would have been relegated to the likes of "Ahnuld," and breathe refreshing life into it. And here, as John Nash, Crowe transforms himself -- body, mind and manner -- into a mad genius. Director Ron Howard's swirling camera-work punctuates Nash's decline into schizophrenia. A BEAUTIFUL MIND is a must-see before Crowe snatches up his second Academy Award this spring.