A classic film, full of beauty...

Rating: 8/10 (30 May 2008)

Spacey is terrific. His character arc along the course of the film is one that most people in his position in real life would love to experience, had they the balls to take the same leap of faith. Spacey fully deserves the Oscar. When he retires, or bites the big one, this will be the film we will all remember him for, I'm sure.
Mendes' direction is understated, yet captures the mood of the film perfectly, using the actors and the dialogue to paint the picture, rather than funky or ground-breaking techniques.
The ensemble cast work well together, bouncing off one another perfectly, and demonstrating Mendes' vision for the film in an entertaining, yet profound manner.
The music is haunting, and semi-surreal, providing a backdrop of the kind of film the audience should expect.
Overall, this film is an interesting and entertaining snapshot of a respectable family in suburban America circa 2000, and how each of them deals with their lack of much craved attention, turning either inwards, or to others for support.