This movie was transforming for my husband and I.

Rating: Null/10 (25 June 2000)

I am always amazed when I hear either neutral or negative comments about this masterpiece. The visuals, direction, acting, and themes were so powerful that, after viewing this film a number of times, my husband and I re-examined our marriage and we concluded that we loved, respected, and appreciated each other much more than we had realized. After being together 15 years, we "honey-mooned" like we were newly-weds after our experience of this film. Even the relationship between the magnificent Anna Pacquin and her mother reminded us of the adoration and fierce devotion a mother and child can have. I have always liked Holly Hunter, Harvey Keitel and Sam Neil, but after this film, I see everything they make, as well as all the films of Jane Campion. This is by far, her showpiece. To all of you who don't see the true art when you view this film, all I can say to you is what the main character in American Beauty told his audience in the end... (please excuse any mis-quotes, this is from memory...) "You probably think I'm crazy and you have no idea what I'm talking about. But don't worry, you will someday..."