My new favourite movie!

Rating: 10/10 (3 February 2005)

This film won't be for everyone. The language is strong and diverse with a strong sexual content. The characters are real and raw. The themes covered are touching and heartbreaking but honest. The combination of the screenplay and the beautiful direction of Mike Nichols bring London to life on the screen and while we only really see the four main characters, the many facets of their lives touch upon so much as to keep you hooked. The soundtrack helps the emotive qualities of the subject matter and Damian Rice's 'Can't take my eyes off of you' sums this up.
The performances of the four characters are pitch perfect. The neediness and faux strength of Alice (Portman), the 'I can't help it' roguish charms of Dan (Law), the vulnerability and lack of self worth of Anna (Roberts) and the strange brew of respectability and depravity of Larry (Owen). Strong direction, great acting and beautiful cinematography fill these people with the right blend of vitality and longing.
Don't go see this expecting an easy film. It challenges you to leave; it wants you to stay. The story, the characters draw you into their world and leave you wanting to know more, wanting to see what happens next. Stick with it and you will be rewarded with a gritty and intense yet mellow film that touches the heart and makes you think.