That's all...

Rating: 9/10 (4 July 2006)

Not sure if Devil is a comedy or a drama. I call it a drama but my friends say this film is definitely a comedy. Whatever the genre, this is a must see for anyone who appreciates great acting. Yes, this year's award for making a mediocre story into a truly great cinematic escape goes to Meryl Streep. Her Miranda is cold and calculating (don't expect a crazed, fanatical, over- the-top character - hers is more reserved, intense). What Streep does (she makes it look effortless though this performance can only come about through hard, disciplined work) is art in the highest form. Miranda is one of the most original "bad guys" created on film. We hang on her every word. We see her struggle for power and self-preservation. And we don't want to forgive her, but we do. These are not the type of emotions audiences usually feel towards the antagonist but Streep gives us a real person, not a caricature. And this is what propels the film along (this and some of the best night shots of New York I've seen). Kudos to the director, cinematographer, script writer (some great and memorable lines), and to whoever got Streep to sign on to this film.