Watch this movie!

Rating: 8/10 (7 May 2005)

I've had the DVD lying around for years, and am I sorry I didn't watch it earlier!
What a movie! Some exciting camera work early on, excellent direction, solid acting. Norton is superb, as is Pitt. Helena Bonham-Carter delivers a realistic performance - she has come a long way since "A room with a view".
The story is intriguing and draws one in from the beginning, with never a dull moment. Scripting is competent and never seems contrived.
The photography has several surprising and original moments that help to reinforce the dislocation of the central character's mental state.
But while it's a brilliant watch, it's not perfect: The most glaring deficiency is the ending. Do yourself a favour and stop watching about 2 minutes before the end. It's lame, a serious let-down. Typically Hollywood and really goes against the grain of the entire movie.
There are more than a few inconsistencies in the story - which become highlighted when the "twist" is revealed. Far from answering questions, the plot surprise raises them - you'll see for yourself, they are obvious.
Also disappointing is the fact that after the fights, the bruises and scars seem to disappear quickly - one day he's black and blue, the next day he's completely unmarked. I recently had a black eye and it took weeks to clear. You'd also expect a few broken bones and some serious dental problems from the continual blows delivered to the mandibles. Not to mention the concussion effects from repeated head injuries.
These quibbles aside, WATCH THIS MOVIE!