Utterly Unique

Rating: 10/10 (24 May 2001)

There is too much in this movie to comment on. It is fast-paced and breath-taking. It is beautiful and romantic. It is lush and decadent. Its is poignant and human. It is absurd and bizarre. It will affect your very core. This film is part Broadway Musical, part Opera, part Music Video. Had someone explained it to me in those terms, I would not have gone. But I can assure you, as a fan of Opera rather than MTV, that the elements WORK! Ewan McGregor is a rock star waiting to be. Nicole Kidman is beautiful, powerful, and a very nice singer. The supporting cast is amazing. There are so many wonderful costumes, sets, lights, colors, camera tricks, songs, musical manipulations, dances, and best of all, it all blends together into a WONDERFUL story! (reminiscent most of Dumas' "Camille", with even a reference to Camille's most famous portrayer, Sarah Bernhardt). It is nearly overwhelming at times, and it is so simple at times. Every element is blended together seamlessly to create a completely new form of the movie-musical. I would like to go into specifics, but I will exceed the 1,000 word limit far too quickly. I think anyone who enjoys love stories, musicals, operas, dance, or just a good film will appreciate this movie.