Neither a disappointment, nor a masterpiece, but entertaining nonetheless

Rating: 7/10 (9 August 1999)

I'm surprised at many of the reviews I read here for this film. It is neither Kubrick's greatest masterpiece, nor an absolute disappointment, but something in between.
I was left with the impression that Kubrick may have not quite finished this film before he died. A little more editing could have tightened things up. Kidman's performance is strong, while Cruise wanders somewhere between very good and half-asleep.
This film is not an erotic film, nor is it really a thriller, although it contains elements of both. It is a pretty good attempt at exploring a marital relationship and the impact of jealousy on that relationship.
A wonderfully effective soundtrack helps keep people on edge and I am still a little on edge some days after seeing it. If a film is meant to entertain then this one has reached the mark. The talk in the foyer after the session I attended was all positive - and that is rare these days.