my new favorite movie

Rating: 9/10 (31 January 2004)

Just like I'd heard, this film is disturbing. Luckily, for viewers like me, a strong emotional reaction makes for a very enjoyable night at the movies.
I was prejudiced against "The Butterfly Effect" from the start, since the only thing anyone seems to say about it is that it was intended to showcase Ashton Kutcher's poor dramatic acting skills. But after seeing the film, I can only assume these people were unable to suspend their previous notions of him as an actor, since I noticed very few slip-ups on his part.
The acting in general is honest and believable, but that's not why I liked the movie so much. Because the script didn't always follow conventions, the plot kept me guessing. In several cases, I thought the story was over, but it wasn't--a quality I realize many audience members don't appreciate. That fact may explain the polarization of reviews: people who go in wanting a formulaic no-brainer with a Hollywood ending will probably be disappointed...but for those of you who like an emotional plot with true suspense, please don't hesitate to see this film.
Unless you are obsessed with plot holes and realism in movies...in that case, don't bother.