Setting a new standard for movies

Rating: 9/10 (22 August 2004)

When I rate a movie on IMDb, and I have rated many, I start all movies at a 5 (average). From their a movie exceeds or fails to entertain or move its subject matter depending on the subject material being shown.
Why tell you this? Because for me to give a movie a 9, you are looking at movie that is a) Oscar material; b) The kind of movie that becomes a classic.
The movie is unique and has twists that some may or may not pick up on early. Its handling of a gentle subject matter the range of emotions the actors use is outstanding. James Gardner surprises us near the end of the movie with so much depth that you truly suspend all disbelief and feel as if you are secretly peeking into someone's room during a private conversation.
The movie may be hard to watch for some and will pull at your heartstrings at every opportunity while not forgetting to make you laugh at other moments.
As with any movie, there is always place for tweaks but this is about as perfect as a movie gets. This movie deserves your interrupted attention during the full two hours.