An unrelentingly tense journey through fear to salvation.

Rating: 9/10 (20 August 2000)

I am not fond of thrillers. But this film captures some of the dark, brooding, intelligent world of Stanley Kubrick and allies it with the humour Kubrick could never possess. The child lead is unforgettable and indeed the film owes much of its power to the sympathy you feel with his fear. Bruce Willis gives a strong performance, perhaps the best of his career. The cinematography is excellent, none of the characters is weak, and the plot twist -- well, it is jolting. A very thought-provoking journey using religious references and excellent dialogue that give the film a lasting impact.