This is why I go to the movies - NOT FOR ESCAPISM...

Rating: 8/10 (5 January 2004)

After all the fuss over 'Lord of the Rings' and everything else out over the the Christmas period - you know all the films that people see in droves to try and escape from their reality? It was so nice to see 'Cold Mountain' a couple of days ago.
Yes it's pretty morbid but does have touches of humour. And when you have a great lead cast and an amazing supporting cast giving some very strong performances, plus some lush cinematography and a compelling story, how can you complain?
I like the fact that there's something deeper happening here with the characters other than the love story. But unlike 'Titanic', 'Cold Mountain' isn't a Hollywood love story, it's a story about survival and Law and Kidman are very convincing here - they also heat up the screen too towards the end. Plus Kathy Baker, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Jena Melone (in a very small role), Natalie Portman (reminding us after 2 'Star Wars' films that she CAN act) and Rene Zellwegger, I came out full filled. This is a film about 'us' and anyone who says it's too bloody needs a reality check because this is what life was like and for all we know could be like it again some day.
I don't think anyone will come out of 'Cold Mountain' saying, "that was just a bit of fun... harmless entertainment" but I think it's impossible to come out thinking that you haven't just seen a film of very high quality both in production values and in terms of story. If you want your movies sugar coated, then by all means, go spend another 3 hours and see 'Return of the King' again.
If you didn't like 'The English Patient' or 'The Talented Mr. Ripley', then you might not like this film as all three are by the same writer/director, but if you enjoy seeing some real characters in real situations, this movie could be what you're looking for.
8 OUT OF 10