A rare gem! A perfect ten!

Rating: 10/10 (14 May 2001)

I don't often think of a film as complete, or even near-perfect, but this one is damn close! Very respectful of the book (and I never thought a transplant from the UK to Chicago would work!), this film relates the story from print to tape in a way that's exceedingly rare these days. It took what it needed and knew when to let go of unnecessary scenes, which is all too often a missing factor in book to film translations.
John Cusack is, IMHO, the most under-rated actor in Hollywood. I've loved his work since 16 Candles, and I can't think of a film offhand that he's in that I don't like. From the best teen film ever made (Say Anything) to outstanding dramas like the Grifters and Being John Malkovich and comedies like Grosse Pointe Blank, there's something about Cusack that just lights up a screen. He doesn't over act, he doesn't steal scenes from other actors...he's *always* on! And this film is no exception; it's hard to believe that this film wasn't written specifically for him (and being an absolute music geek and self-professed obsessed vinyl addict in real life, he wasn't stretching too far, either;)
And the supporting cast is nothing short of brilliant! Todd Louiso and Jack Black are magnificent as the loner vinyl-shop geekboys, and they play beautifully off of each other and Cusack as well (the Cusack & co. vs. Tim Robbins scenes were *hilarious*!!) And John's sis Joan played perfectly off of him as well. In fact the chemistry between all supporting characters was quite good; Bonet, Zeta-Jones, Gregson Wagner and Lili Taylor all worked really well with Cusack, and Tim Robbins was *very* amusing. I do wish that the adorable Sara Gilbert had a bigger role though;)
Iben Hjejle was the only rotten apple here. The woman simply cannot act. She displays barely an ounce of emotion (not to mention a completely monotonous voice) and her expressiveness is less than impressive (non-existent?). If her role was at all important as anything other than a catalyst for the story, she might well ruin the film. But the scenes with her are all inevitably saved by Cusack, and don't last long enough to spoil the film.
Overall: The soundtrack rocks (*love* that Beta Band song!;). The film is a perfect length. It reflects the book beautifully. It's a boon to vinyl freaks (like me;). The acting is incredible, and Cusack is at his absolute best here! And for God's sake it's got Bruce Springsteen in it!! WHAT MORE COULD ONE POSSIBLE ASK FOR??? A rare 10/10!