Well balanced subtlety and honesty

Rating: 10/10 (7 December 2003)

** Mild Spoilers **
By far one of the best movies I've seen in a long time. The plot, if not incredibly in depth, never bogs down, and keeps you continually engaged in each character's life. I found myself several times just as one event was concluding, wondering what was happening in another's character's life, only to be taken right to them moments later.
Special appreciation to the wonderfully done relationship between Daniel and Sam, and Aurelia and Jamie.
Two themes I've found in people nay-saying the movie: political/social commentary and nudity.
We must not forget that film makers and writers have the privilege in the free world to comment however they wish on the choices those in the political arena make, just as they do social trends. The right to question and examine these things is what makes movies independent art and not just propaganda. More specifically, the Prime Minister-U.S. President relationship issue in the movie may be a chance for Americans to get a very real look at how those on the other side of the Atlantic view the single man "chosen" to represent all of us. You don't have to agree with it, but don't close yourself to its possibilities.
As far as nudity, aside from the fact that there are a few scenes with frontal exposure, I've most definitely seen more sexually aggressive subject matter in prime time network T.V. While perhaps superfluous, it was in no way pornographic, as reviewers and critics have lamented. And don't forget - we now have a rating system that tells you point blank if there is nudity. The doe-eyed parent has no grounds to cry foul over an unexpected nude scene.
It is absolutely the most engaging movie about all the various incarnations of love I have ever seen. It was heartwarming, real, and a real affirmation that good movies can still be made in our era of plot-less sequels and fanatical jingoism.