one of the most mind-bending but satisfying films of our time

Rating: Null/10 (23 July 2002)

If I may be so bold as to say that this film is not what I expected and in turn I was pleasantly surprised at the beauty and complexity of this gem and at the same time perplexed by the fact that this wasn't a smash hit!! Vanilla Sky may not satisfy the conventional "movie-goer", but true film-buffs should eat this masterpiece up!! I had no idea what this movie was about before seeing it and came away totally caught up in this surreal and twisting tale of existential soul-searching. Tom Cruise (by the way I never was a huge fan of his) gives one of the best on-screen performances I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing. His looks and charm work in this film and I couldn't think of a better actor to portray the lucky/lonely David Aames! Penelope Cruz does an extremely good job of reprising her role as the mystically beautiful Sofia. Two things that annoy me about the reviews of this film - the lack of appreciation for Cruz's AND Kurt Russell's performances!! Ms. Cruz is SUPERB as the enigmatic Sofia and it pains me to see American critics downplay her acting abilities. It seems that when a foreigner that is popular in their home country crosses over to American films the critics in this land don't seem to appreciate their talent and write them off as "another pretty face".
Another hidden jewel of this work of art is KURT RUSSELL!!! His portrayal as the caring and hopeful Dr. McCabe is his best work to date. I think people have always written him off as a Hollywood "Hunk?" with no real acting ability and he was completely ignored for Oscar consideration as Best Supporting Actor for his role! His performance is moving and heart-warming and seems to be David Aames' only true ally and friend. I feel that his work in this film alone should finally legitimize him as a true artist in this field. I defy anyone to oppose this view - he is simply brilliant in this movie. The incomparable Jason Lee is equally brilliant as Cruise's best friend! His sarcastic wit and "loser charm" are endearing and should propel him to "larger" roles in the future. This guy has a big future in Tinsel Town if the right roles come his way! See it! (More than once!) Feel it! Kudos to Cameron Crowe And cast!!!