****1/2 out of 5

Rating: Null/10 (7 August 2002)

This dark comdey focuses in on the day in the life of a disfunctional family and the actions that take place around them. The movie one several oscars including best picture and best actor for the well disserved Kevin Spacey. Spacey is priceless as a father and husband who is getting fed up with his family who include his cheating wife (Anette Benning) and his troubled daughter (Thora Birch). He is also falling for his daughters best friend (Mena Suvari) and is becoming friends with the son of their neighbour who is also attracted to his daughter, trust me it's not as confusing as it sounds. Birch and Suvari handel thier mature roles very good and you can also see Peter Gallager as Bennings boss/secret lover. The movie is often funny and other times dark and beautiful. Although I don't believe that it was the best movie of the year it does rank high on that list and will be a treat for all fans looking for something a little more offbeat that normal.