A homage to exquisite film making

Rating: 8/10 (10 August 2000)

We as film enthusiasts,often place to high an expectation on a specific film and almost always end up disappointed. Luckily "the piano" met every expectation in the book and than some.Each character in this film felt very tangible,to the point of losing oneself in the characters narrative.Holly
Hunter created such a presence,that her characters self imposed silence was the films own narrative.Every emotion imaginable manifested it self in Holly Hunters physical form so well,that the film revolved around her. Both Sam Neil and Harvey Kietel's roles provided such a contrast to each other.One was bound by his devotion to his duty as an archtypical husband and provider.The other,bound by his devotion to his instincts and emotions.Kudos to both Sam
Niel and Harvey Kietel for dilivering perfectly nuanced and complicated performances. Anna Paquin's character provided us with a view of a simple and uncomplicated existance that ultimately acts as a catalyst to films plot. Jane Campion herself showed such sensitivity in her writting and direction.Her astute handling of the films plot and vision provided us with a sence of realism that is both beautiful and ugly at the same time. Micheal Nyman's music score,gave the film its mood.The score moved like an artist brush stroke,leaving an exquisite after taste. This movie is quite simply the finest film made in the 1990's.