As close to perfect as we're going to see

Rating: 10/10 (15 August 2010)

Witty, sumptuous, full of twists and turns and, to the end, surprises. Writing does not get any better; acting is flawless. I would watch it again just to look at Dame Judi's face and Gwyneth's "bubbies." One thing that stands out is the pacing of the movie--it seems to propel the viewer forward, often in a mad rush, always with a heightened sense of expectation. Movies that literally make you laugh and cry are rare. SIL is very funny (thanks to Tom Stoppard) yet has a serious theme and moments of pathos. And there seems to be authenticity in its historical settings and backdrop.
This is a movie that lives a lifetime. One of my Top 5.