Truly a masterpiece.

Rating: 9/10 (11 January 2013)

I was already a big fan of Ang Lee before seeing this film, so I expected greatness, but it truly exceeded my expectations. I was blown away by the visual aspect, let alone the acting.
I've read so many complaints about the CGI Richard Parker, but never have I seen a fake tiger look so real. The one part in the film that really pulled on my heart strings was when Richard Parker was in the water for hours. His facial expressions were so realistic and believable. Clearly the people making these complaints have never sat down and watched the Nat Geo Wild channel, if they had they would understand that Lee really did his research on Bengal tigers, because he got the characteristics and traits down to a tee.
Pi. What a character, old and young. I remember seeing Irrfan Khan in one of my favorite films, New York, I Love You. He's such a likable character. I genuinely would believe anything that came out of his mouth if I met him. He and Suraj Sharma seemed so alike throughout the story telling. Sharma acted brilliantly with Richard Parker. Lee made sure that it wasn't an obvious love between Pi and Richard Parker, but instead a mutual respect. This feeling continued throughout the film, right to the end when Richard Parker didn't turn around. It was completely understandable on Richard Parkers part. Lee kept the element of realness, even though the whole story is so hard to believe.
Life of Pi is the first time I've seen Suraj Sharma, and he really won me over. The way his character survives is so smart yet so simple. He uses his brain, and he was the perfect film character to the book character.
Lastly, I MUST comment on the colors. Everything was so clear, so vivid. Every shot was like a stunning piece of art. I can't remember the last time I saw a film that left me in awe purely because of the colors. Incredible.
Life of Pi is beautiful. I definitely recommend it. I will be seeing it on the IMAX screen again next month. I'm sure it will shock me, make me fall in love and make me cry all over again. What a masterpiece.