Vanilla Sky is Cameron Crowes adaptation of 1997s Spanish thriller Abre Los Ojos. And in this film, we indeed open our eyes to the bizarre and intriguing life of millionaire David Aames.

Rating: 6/10 (12 June 2002)

Its a fantasy, so even if there are many unrealistic and silly moments, they can be excused. Solid (bordering on strong) performances, excellent direction and a generally clever script make this film one of 2001s most pleasant surprises.
The film doesnt quite match Crowes previous effort, Almost Famous. It lacks the Oscarcalibre performances, the script isnt as well written and not every character is well developed. But he has still made a thoroughly entertaining and sometimes debatable film with quite a few memorable scenes.
Here, Tom Cruise (Aames) makes the transformation from action hero to eventually troubled millionaire, and he actually does it quite well. While he occasionally overacts and seems nervous at times, he still does a fine job, even allowing us to sympathize with his character. It seems that, like in Jerry Maguire, Crowe knows how to get a good performance from the actor. Cruises current reallife love interest Penelope Cruz also gives a good display, mixing radiance with surprising effectiveness. Most of the stronger parts of the film feature her and Cruise, and chemistry between them is (unsurprisingly) strong. Meanwhile, Cameron Diaz is at ease in her overthetop, if slightly small role. These roles seem to suit her well, and she plays this one to great effect. Other notable performers are Jason Lee as Davids friend, Kurt Russell as a mildmannered psychiatrist, and Noah Taylor as a mysterious stranger.
The film has many surprises. You feel involved in nearly every scene, and most of the time, you cant tell whats coming next. The final twist to the story is indeed unexpected, even if it is a bit too bizarre and causes the film to drag on longer than it should. Also, the film is maybe a little too sentimental at times, and the scenes dont always link clearly together. Thankfully, Crowe manages to prevent the film from becoming a mess. Set design is attractive, and the music, which includes the use of songs by R.E.M. and Paul McCartney, blends in well.
I think calling this a masterpiece would be going a bit too far (its problems are all too visible, notably the slightly confusing beginning and overlong end), but this is a wellmade and constantly involving film which shouldnt be missed.