Brilliant and Incredibly depressing film

Rating: 10/10 (18 March 2004)

***MINOR SPOILERS***
This is, without a doubt, a brilliant film. It was well scripted, well acted, well directed, and there are few, if any, flaws. The only problem I have with this film is how depressing it is. I was shell shocked after I had watched it. I didn't know what to think. The first part of the movie was a comedy through and through. I watched it the entire time with almost an air of smugness. The first part was nothing compared to the second though. The end is what makes this a brilliant and thought provoking film. My smugness disappeared in the last twenty minutes. Though the ending is ultimately uplifting with the fate of Chief, the events surrounding it are horrifying and depressing. I wholeheartedly recommend this movie, but I also recommend that you prepare yourself for something other than a comedy.
PS. Does anyone know why Louise Fletcher won best actress? She was just not that good.