Slightly shallow, but a good ride.

Rating: 9/10 (6 January 2001)

This is a GREAT film. Being that the majority of films of 2000 were not that great, this is a shoe-in for multiple Oscar nominations.
Tom Hanks gives a great performance, really making us feel as though we're there with him... as though our fates are entwined with his. His ability for acting shines in this role.
The greater part of the movie rests in mostly silence, as we watch Hanks' character, Chuck, struggling to live on the tiny island which has become his prison. What's interesting about this is that it rips away all the advances and advantages we as a human race have gained, leaving Chuck to learn all over again how to survive.
Rarely have I been actually hurt when I've seen a character on screen experience pain. One scene in particular which makes the audience cry out is when Chuck loses Walter. I doubt there was one person in the theater that wasn't hurt... wasn't hoping against hope that Hanks would get him back, and was almost in tears when he didn't.
Granted, the plot of this film is not complex, and does not require much thought, but that's not a bad thing. Tom Hanks' acting ability turns what could have been a mediocre role into one of depth, making the viewer sympathise with every hardship he must endure.
One thing I've heard many times over is how bad the ending is. Why? Because it's not 'happily ever after?' It is NOT a warm and cozy ending... it's not made to make us feel good inside. It's realistic. And to those who scoff and Hanks' sadness, you've failed to really FEEL his character. Put yourself in his shoes. How would you feel?
Want a funny movie? See "Dude Where's My Car?" Want a movie with a happy ending? See "Gladiator." Want an emotional movie to envelop you and truly tie your feelings into knots? See this one.
You will not be disappointed.