Excellent!!!

Rating: 10/10 (1 November 2002)

There is no way of summarising this film. But to be very brief, Vanilla Sky is filmmaking at its very best. Here is my overall statement in regards to it; I truly loved this film. Vanilla Sky really got 2002 off to a great start. Lets start with the acting.
Asides for Oceans Eleven, (another great movie), Vanilla Sky has the best ensemble cast so far this year. First of all, Tom Cruise is the film's shining light. He plays the `Citizen Dildo', rich playboy part and the Elephant Man part supremely. And deserves an Oscar nomination, at least. Penelope Cruz gives a very credible performance and her relationship with Cruise off-screen was a further benefit towards the film. Cameron Diaz is only in the first 40 minutes of the film and any other time she appears in the film, there's something strange going on. Otherwise she's fairly good. Jason Lee, though initially unkempt, is perfect with his `2nd best' character. Kurt Russell gives another top-notch performance, this time as a sympathetic psychiatrist. There are other parts in the film varying from cameos to big rolls. Among these are Noah Taylor, Timothy Spall, Tilda Swilton, Alicia Witt and Steven Spielberg. So, the film has a strong cast and some excellent performances.
Followed up by this is some impeccable directing. Cameron Crowe does an excellent job and creates a masterpiece.
Vanilla Sky is divided up into 3 parts. For the first 40 minutes it's a witty, romantic slice of life with a thrilling finish. For the next 45 minutes it's a gloomy, dramatic, psychological thriller. The least of the 3 parts. And, the 3rd part. For the final 45 minutes, Vanilla Sky is a mystery thriller cum sci-fi drama.
PLOT SPOILERS I liked the twist in the end. I'm well aware that its caused controversy, but I think that a sci-fi twist was the way to go. Without the cryogenation-half-way-through-the-movie, the film would not have worked. It explains everything, so that there's no questions asked. It also leaves you asking questions about philosophy and reality, afterwards. SPOILERS END
It covers SO many genres. It's a drama, thriller, romance, mystery, noir, comedy and a sci-fi. In conclusion, if you have a short attention span and/or are a sarcastic, moronic cynic, then don't watch Vanilla Sky. Otherwise, rent it NOW. 10/10.