The World of "The Piano"

Rating: 10/10 (9 November 2009)

This movie had me from the beginning. The rush of the waves that carry Holly Hunter and daughter Anna Paquin to Holly's arranged marriage to farmer Sam Neill in New Zealand and the intense emotions projected by mute Holly Hunter on the beach about needing her piano (more than her clothes or anything) sets in motion the roller coaster ride of yearning and sensuality in this dark and beautiful masterpiece. People who are sensible and are not impressed by moody films will not be affected by this at all. And, some just won't get it.
She may be married to Sam Neill, but when he wouldn't take her piano with them to his home after knowing she wanted it, if nothing else, he subconsciously let her know he doesn't really care about her. She gradually comes to love Harvey Keitel (when he shows interest in music, her piano, and her), and she is more his than Sam's.
If you're looking for a mature story of love and acceptance (and I've barely scratched the surface in all it conveys) that isn't ashamed to use all the emotions in the book to evoke an experience you're not likely ever to get anywhere else. "The Piano" is a 'feelings' movie that demands you get involved. You will love it, or you will be left wondering what happened. Emerge yourself into the world of "The Piano."