A misunderstood masterpiece.

Rating: 10/10 (1 April 2000)

Like so many, I was swept up by the pre-release hysterics: The sex! The secrecy! The stars! The censorship! Fortunately, I forgot about all of that when the opening credits began, and I was able to appreciate its intricate story, its rich look and feel, its astonishing performances, and the genius of its director. Kubrick's swan song is an incredible journey into the psyche's darkest places--a terrain he knew well. It is a gutsy, dream-like ride to the outer edges of jealousy and obsession, a fitting farewell from a director who was called a recluse but always had perfect pitch for the human condition.