The complete morality play requires attention to the consequences

Rating: 10/10 (6 January 2006)

The focus of the film is appropriately on the protagonist, Ennis, whose decision to maintain his love affair with Jack regardless of the consequences creates the tragic plot. The director attends to Ennis and his decision without flagging, unless we note the momentary look in the eyes of Alma when she discovers Ennis embracing Jack in the driveway. At that moment, we know the price Ennis will pay for his love affair. The effects play out slowly but surely, with the final third of the movie dwelling upon the ruinous effects of Ennis' decision. One final note of hope in all the sadness: Ennis' wonderful daughter, the fruit of his marriage to Alma, emerges as a loving child, one who will recall for him what might have been. All this human complexity is handled extremely effectively by the director, as well as the actors who are brilliant. Morality tales seem to be alive and potent!