Total Disappointment!

Rating: 5/10 (17 August 2001)

The book was one of the greatest, if not the greatest book I have ever read. I wasn't expecting the movie to live up to all of my expectations from the book, but some would have been nice. The movie was rushed in the beginning, poorly introducing the characters. There is no real explanation as to why the Italians are invading (the book goes into impressive detail about the Italians invasion which was an important element in the story). Characters roles in the story completely change, many of them losing their charm.
You will be disappointed by this film. Penelope Cruz' acting is truly pathetic, and I am not one of those that dislikes her. I have comments here where people are stating that this is her finest work (Go see Todo sobre mi madre, this is NOT it). All-in-all, prepare to be disappointed, the music and cinematography are wonderful, but not much else!