why SHOULDN'T this film have received an Oscar nomination?

Rating: 10/10 (13 August 2003)

There's something about Legends of the Fall that is haunting. This beautifully done period piece about 3 brothers and the father(and woman) who loves them hasn't received enough credit. Sure it was long, soap operaish and had many "beautiful people" in it. So what? I thought this was an excellent movie, very moving, actually exceptionally so. It's a superb movie with unforgettable characters, haunting music and some of the most gorgeous scenery I've ever seen. Don't expect just another period piece.
Brad Pitt was delightful although it wasn't his best role(close enough) and I also really liked Aiden Quinn who put in an Oscar worthy performance. In fact, I liked everybody. I would like to know why Julia Ormond did not become an instant star from this or at least get an Oscar nomination, she was absolutely brilliant. My feeling is, had this movie been made with a different, more "serious" cast it would have received a lot more critical recognition. (Picture Legends Of The Fall:starring Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep.)
So many people lump Brad Pitt as a pretty boy ignoring the fact that he's a really good actor. In fact, the performances by EVERYONE here are top notch. This movie is absolutely stirring and I've watched it so many times I've lost count. Everything, from the characters , to the richly appropriate music, to the almost unbelievably magnificent, scenery, and emotional power to the movie in general, come together to create a movie that is very much unique in it's way. This beautiful tale had it all and though there is a lot of death and you will cry throughout the picture it shouldn't be missed if you haven't already seen it. 10 of 10.