a superb cinematic masterpiece! A+!!!

Rating: 10/10 (4 January 2013)

The movies I love the most are those in which all of the elements of film-making are at the top of their form and this film has it all: great direction, editing, art direction (the recreation of the tsunami and the aftermath are astonishing), writing, visual effects, music, sound, and acting. There are 3 superb central performances: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor (his crying scene is the best work he has ever done), and especially young Tom Holland, playing a really complex boy in a multi-layered amazing performance. J.A. Bayona's direction is brilliant.
This movie is second on my top ten list for 2012 (Life Of Pi is #1). I have seen Bayona's earlier masterpiece, the horror film "The Orphanage", so I'm not surprised at his ability with actors; once again he helms an extraordinary and difficult film.
I disagree with others in regards to the relationships in this movie, as I find them quite complex and moving. Everything about this movie works for me. I was enthralled every single moment. I love this movie! (: