Beautifully Acted, Depressing Film

Rating: Null/10 (11 February 2003)

The acting here is textbook by all three leads. Jack inhabits his role as an unbalanced loner, and Helen Hunt and Greg Kinnear provide believable, understated support. I left the theater with one more expression in my vocabulary, which is the notion that maybe, this is "As Good As It Gets." This is a depressing thought, unfortunately, and that is the point of this film. The Hollywood-style redemption we all hope for and expect was only partially, conditionally delivered by this film. This film is a fine counterpoint to the pablum Hollywood typically serves up. Be sure to see it.