most interesting film of the year

Rating: Null/10 (17 August 1999)

Eyes Wide Shut is an amazing mixture of the simple and the complex. Let me first say that I plan to see this film again as there is too much to absorb in one viewing. For that reason my observations will be basic. Mr. Kubrick took the simple premise of marital infidelity -- perceived or real -- and wove a complex story in which to see should not always be to believe. I thought the filming was unusual at times providing almost a surreal feeling. It also felt as if it was filmed in the late '50's or '60's with little color variation and an emphasis on primary colors. The film is well over two hours long but each scene in Dr. Bill Hartford's odyssey seemed almost free-standing not necessary to the other parts but only to the whole. The soundtrack consisting of a one finger piano chord was a highly effective mood setter. The sex scenes which got so much pre-release press were neither gratuitous or erotic but cold and depersonalizing. What is the difference between the North American and the European versions? Another film of summer of '99 to give cause for discussing MPAA ratings. None of the aforementioned comments should be read as negative and only add to my interest in the film. The lead performances by Mr. Cruise and Ms. Kidman were fantastic. As I've said I will see this film again. Recommended. Three plus stars!!!