You must see this film.

Rating: 10/10 (21 April 2008)

Sam Mendes' tale of self-fulfilment is a masterpiece. Everything works together in a wonderful harmony which is utterly memorable, gripping and beautiful to look at.
It rings true, for the most part, because of two people, namely Kevin Spacey and Annette Bening. Spacey is so sardonic, so world-weary and so precise with every word in every line that he makes every second spent with his character joyous, whilst Bening brings a pitch-perfect portrayal of insecurity and suburban façade that frankly puts "Desperate Housewives" to shame. The entire ensemble gels together magnificently.
But the film is not just made by the supreme acting but also by the fantastic dark comedy. The script, by Alan Ball, is hilarious in such a brilliantly inventive way, the likes of which have not been seen since Billy Wilder.
And then there's the visual style. Mendes' images are stunning, memorable and clever (plenty of thanks should also go to DP, Conrad L. Hall). The direction is detectable but not overly forceful. You're aware of the director's hand but it doesn't bother you and this makes you think. It absorbs you into the film completely.
This is a wonderful experience and not to be missed. The simple message of the film is born out to perfection and the end is utterly satisfying, but along the way it is moving, funny, intelligent, stunning, devastating and uplifting. You must see this film.