Do reactions need to be so black and white?

Rating: 7/10 (9 December 2004)

I have read a lot of the comments since at last catching up with the movie this week. Audience reactions seem to be polarised between those who love it and those that found it boring. I have neither of those reactions.
On the whole I enjoyed watching it. I have no problem with movies which take their time and each scene had something to like; whether it was cinematography, acting or situation.
But I did not love it. I was not left with a feeling of satisfaction at the end because the characters did not go on a journey which I could appreciate. I suppose the question is: do we want movies to reflect life or to tell a story. Most of the time when I am in the cinema, I want to be told a story even if the plot or resolution are somewhat unrealistic. There is enough real life out there for us all to experience. I am not asking for a conventional romantic drama but as least some conflict or temptation.
I would contrast this with another Scarlett Johanssen film, Girl with a Pearl Earring, which I enjoyed much more. This also was a slow burn of a film, but there was an outcome of sorts (the picture) and there was more love shown for the setting. Here Tokyo is caricatured and the lack of script seemed to distance us from the characters.
I don't think watching this was anything like waste of time and Copolla has talent to spare, but I wonder if I shall ever feel moved to see it again.