An excellent film with two standout performances

Rating: 8/10 (24 December 1999)

I wasn't sure what to expect from this film. I like Winona Ryder and I adore Angelina Jolie. The two together make for a standout piece of movie making. I had not been recently impressed with Ms. Ryder's work but my faith has been restored with this performance. She is absolutely wonderful. So strong at one moment and so in need of sympathy at the next. She gives a multi layered take on her character that really portrays the turmoil she is in as so realistic. And what can I say about Angelina Jolie? Another knockout turn to be sure. The woman knows how to act plain and simple. The power she brings to the screen is incredible. I found that the scenes she was not in while very good to be sure, were calling out for her quick return. She has a very bright future ahead in Hollywood. The film itself blends both comedy and pathos. A wonderful combination that will have the viewer laughing and then frowning a moment later. The emotions flow freely and very quickly. Very few dull moments here. I highly recommend this film. It has a few depressing moments as would be expected from the subject matter, but the overall story is handled so deftly you must watch every moment of it and will be very eager to see how it all works out.