Another good way to start thinking/talking about A.I.

Rating: Null/10 (29 April 1999)

I went to see this primarily because my students (I teach Mathematics and Computer Science at a University) were raving about it. Some have even seen it as many times as I saw Good Will Hunting in theaters. So I was expecting good. I got one of the best films I've seen all year (o.k. it wasn't the best year but); I like Sci Fi that makes you think!
I've read comments from people who complain that they didn't know what was going on for at least the first 15 minutes of the movie! (And you can tell they think that's a bad thing?) I think it's nice to go see a movie, especially an action movie, where you can't outline the entire thing after seeing the trailer! If you are told what's going on, what are you going to think about? I found the beginning of the movie intriguing. I didn't know for at least the first 15 minutes whether I would like the movie or not, but that's good, too.
The look and feel of the movie was good and unique. I don't know whether Keanu Reeves can act but he certainly fit this part perfectly, he was exactly what you'd expect a computer hacker who got pulled out of his reality to be like. Frankly, I think he's been well cast in a number of movies, but that's off the topic. Lawrence Fishbourne was fabulous and the other characters seemed to fit. I have seen this twice and I definitely recommend seeing it in a big theater with a good sound system as it makes use of all the latest technology. I saw it in a smaller theatre the first time. In any event, I didn't find it lost too much the second time 'round. In fact, unless we start getting something good opening soon, I'll probably see it a third time.
I don't mind a few gaps you have to fill in yourself, like I said, I like films that make you think; and trying to figure out the gaps is thinking. This movie isn't for everyone (obviously from the comments). It is a bit dark and has some of that music video glitz to it that I usually don't like. And there is quite a bit of violence - although it's not the sadistic kind of violence that I can't sit through. But it does get people talking. The only frustrating thing is that those of us who had seen it couldn't discuss it in class for fear of ruining the experience for those who hadn't.
If you miss it in theaters I'd still catch it on video, but don't miss it in theaters, it's a great big-screen movie!