A good movie, just not extraordinary

Rating: 6/10 (15 June 2010)

An interesting premise, a talented cast, terrific effects, and beautiful music. So why, at the end of the movie, did I feel it was a. too long b. lacking and c. empty?
Perhaps it is because we never scratch the surface of any of the major characters. In many ways, this movie reminds me of Forrest Gump - we have an unusual character, played by a talented actor, and we see the events of many decades through his eyes (and narration). But in Gump, the simplistic character winds up being quite wise, and his insights, while short, are piercing. Here, Benjamin's insights are superficial. Oh, yes, we do get a couple of moments where we sense there is a larger message the movie is working toward. But they are rare, and not pieced together.
The fluidity of the movie, the sweeping scenes, and the beautiful score make this a lovely movie. But it could have been, truly, an extraordinary movie if it had been better edited (did we need such a long Russian montage?) and if the script had delved into the characters better (particularly Benjamin's lover in Russia). His relationship with his mother was heartwarming, and yet her death was abrupt and without emotion from Benjamin. It seems that he passes through life as an observer, yet the plot has him embracing life and doing all that he wants to do. It is a contradiction that doesn't fit the other quality aspects of the film.
I would watch it again. But I suspect I would be disappointed, again. Not because of the hype, but because so many of the elements of a wonderful film are there, but not used.