Nice set, shame about the pathos...

Rating: 7/10 (6 September 2004)

Tom Hanks is on his usual affeable form, but Spielberg turns up the schmaltz just a little too much, as is his want.
A glut of contrived side stories adds more fat than the lean frame can handle. Some unconvincing romantic asides just distract from the core of Hanks' resourcefulness, in an odd mirror image of Castaway's self sufficiency theme. At over two hours in length, this sweet and charming tale outstays its welcome.
However the endeavour is saved by an impeccably mannered performance from Stanley Tucci who adds depth and intrigue by way of his confounded terminal manager.