Very Strong -- Definitely Worth Seeing

Rating: 10/10 (2 March 2006)

I find it interesting reading the comments regarding this film after having seen it for myself. I can see some people thinking it was more moving or intense than other people, but these ratings of zero or one star with little relevant commentary on the actual content of the film make me think that many of the people posting these low ratings are posting here after never having even seen the film. That is really a cheap shot to come on to a movie site and make negative comments after never even watching a film! Unfortunate to be honest.....
Regarding the film itself, I found it to be very unique in its subject matter. The underlying story is very strong, the acting is very credible and very good, the camera work and scenery captured is excellent and the directing is really strong. At first I was going to say that the feelings of the two main characters towards each other was not well enough explained or developed, but after thinking about it I don't think such feelings really can be truly explained in any movie. The looks, glances, expressions and the few words show the feelings a lot more than a ton of dialog or history ever could. Note: this film gets you thinking a lot after you have seen it, at least it did with me. It is very moving in many ways.
In conclusion, I was very pleasantly surprised by this film because of its force and because it does not fall into any stereotypes or predictable scenarios. It also covers a subject that is almost never covered in film. Thank you to Ang Lee and the rest of those involved in creating this film! It is one of the best films I have seen in many years. Although I have not fully come down with my final verdict for the long run, as of now I rank it up on my all-time list with The Deerhunter, The Natural and a few others. Really great.