The most impressive piece of cinema I have ever seen.

Rating: 10/10 (30 August 2001)

While reading another user commentary I stumbled across a line that said that this movie was one of the most important movies ever made, and I firmly agree with that statement. Everything about this movie is ingenious. From its heart wrenching original score to the brilliant acting jobs by the entire ensemble this move is a spellbinding work of art. The subject matter is handled far better than any movie before it. Jared Leto and Marlon Wayans emerged from their homes in the shallow end of the talent pool. Both gave amazing performances as junkies who will do anything for a fix. While I wasn't shocked by the display of talent by both Jennifer Connely and Ellen Burstyn (because I was already aware of the immense talent that each of these two women have), I was equally pleased with their performances. The fact that this movie was not nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Original Score is an outrage, but it is far too late to do anything about that. It is also an outrage that someone as bland as Julia Roberts won the Oscar for best actress over the amazing performance of Burstyn in this film.
This film is one of the most disturbing and depressing movies I have ever seen. I don't suggest that you see this film alone, but I do suggest (almost demand) that you see this film. It is a lesson in film-making, and one of the most amazing ones ever.