I can see why opinion is so divided

Rating: 9/10 (20 November 2004)

If you're expecting Son of Die Hard or a soppy love story, Bzzzzzt, wrong movie. If you have ever loved and lost, then you'll buy the DVD. So I guess that explains the sharp division in opinions about this piece.
The story is pretty simple and you've probably read about it already. What makes this movie special is that its not standard "Hollywood". In real life, and to my experience - and believe me I am an expert by now - when you meet your ex after 10yrs sparks don't fly. There are no happy happy joy joy moments with violins playing. Time has changed you both and the pain and love have both dulled with time. There is however still something there no matter how much you hate to admit it. So I was surprised to see a movie that tries to tell it like it is. The dialog sounds like they went and recorded a real couple and just sneaked it off as a screenplay.
OK, so there are stretches where the dialog becomes trite. But then, just when you're about to lose all attention and go order a pizza, there is a scene that cuts close to the bone. The most memorable is a scene in the car where the two main characters stop side stepping how they feel and let it all out. The ending, is exactly right. I won't spoil it for you.
Finally, I am just happy there are still film makers out there like Richard Linklater and Alexander Payne who don't pander to the perceived common taste and try to create something special that feels real and touches you deep down.