A rare combination of acting and plot

Rating: 10/10 (2 August 2004)

The story is epic. Tom Cruise is nearly perfect. The plot is thick, but not too complex. The one-liners, both humorous and thoughtful, are plentiful, but not overbearing. This epic film is not quite a true action film, but also not a true romance/drama. It is a moving depiction of a man torn inside who finds companionship and belonging. It goes deep beneath the surface of humanity to examine what makes life worth living. It is one of those rare films that made me think, in a way that I'm not even sure the filmmakers intended. It teaches the virtues of acceptance, tolerance, honesty, and loyalty. There are few films that create a sensation such as this. Beyond Cruise, the other actors may not be altogether noteworthy. The script is at times slightly cumbersome. Still, in a time when most movies have only time to for a good plot OR good acting OR a good script, this film finds a way to have all three in enough of a dose that they blend together to make a terrific film. Best of all, it is family-oriented (assuming teenagers or above).