a very well-made film

Rating: 8/10 (10 January 2000)

This film is extremely dark and twisted, and I would recommend that depressed persons veer away from it. I am not sure what I thought of the plot, although it was quite original. I don't know if I could watch it again, because I don't know if my emotions could handle it. I would venture to say that the best part of the film is the acting. Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Wes Bentley, and Thora Birch are amazing. I was awed at Annette's ability, having only previously seen her in "An American President" (in which she is also good). The last few minutes of the film make it all worth watching. The sweetness of the ending ultimately leaves you with a bittersweet feeling. My friend, sister, and I stayed to watch the credits because we were just stunned. It is so new, fresh, and makes you glad for the goodness in your own life because of the crappiness of the characters' lives. I would recommend it to anyone who thinks their emotional state can handle it. You will be thinking about it for many hours afterwards, I promise you.