Beautiful in every sense of the word

Rating: 10/10 (25 January 2002)

Everything--the direction, the cinematography, the music, and of course, the acting--everything in the movie is beautiful. Russell Crowe is brilliant as he always is. He has done what I never expected him to do--match his performance as Jeff Wigand in Mann's "The Insider." He gives so much to his role as John Nash that I forgot it was him. His appearance becomes increasingly disturbing as the film moves along. Ron Howard's direction is flawless. He has finally proved to the world that he is an amazing director and no list of the best contemporary directors is complete unless it bears his name. The brightest gem in this film is Jennifer Connelly. Her performance is so real that you can't help but feel her pain in coping with her schizophrenic husband. Her performance as Alicia is worth every supporting actress accolade in the books. Ed Harris gives his best performance ever in a supporting role as Nash's antagonist. He appearance is so subtle it is absolutely terrifying. James Horner's musical score is grade A even compared to his previous work on Titanic and Glory. Beautifully cast, magnificently photographed, reverently directed, and hauntingly executed. This best film of the year 2001 is Ron Howard's magnum opus. A complete triumph that stands high above a rabble of mediocre works. Beautiful.

****/****