Where are the characters?

Rating: 3/10 (24 January 2008)

I was pretty much bored stiff by this film. We learn nothing about the important characters, and the only character we could care about, the Tommy Lee Jones character, is so removed from the action, that caring about him doesn't matter.
The pacing is not only deadly, but never varies when the situation gets more intense, or when the situation is not critical.
There is none of the Coen Brothers trade mark 'quirkeness' to any of the characters, and tho the Javier Bardhem character may be 'a man on a mission' we never know why, or get a clue as to what makes him tick.
I am shocked that this film has met with such enthusiasm, and can't believe Bardhem is nominated for his one level performance. And further surprised that he is nominated as supporting actor, when he is on screen for most of the film.
Bring back Fargo and Oh Brother. Now those were the Coen's at their best. Mostly with this film I was bored stiff. No character, no relationships, no suspense, and no pacing. A not very good film from two talented film makers.
Why did you like the film, is my question to all those enthusiastic viewers. My friend said, "I was on the edge of my seat the entire time." But, with such lousy pacing, and no clue as to who anyone was, I couldn't have cared less.