Best Film of 2002...

Rating: 10/10 (4 January 2003)

...in fact, one of the best films I've seen in quite some time. Although not unique in theme, The Pianist is very much unique in presentation, perspective, and pacing. Polanski is technically brilliant here, and his portrayal of humanity within a context of universal suffering and personal torment is poignant without being cheesy or sappy. This is a movie I will own the second it becomes available on DVD, but I would highly recommend seeing it in the theater. There's a certain grandness to it that demands to be seen at least once on the big screen.
Not entertaining, but a profoundly life-affirming and moving film.