This film is characterised by beautiful cinematography. One can't complain about the places and sights it shows us. On one level it's a very dramatic love story for the hopelessly romantic, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. If you're in the mood you can become engrossed with a box of tissues on your lap. Preparing a cup of black tea infused with fresh mint leaves to sip as you watch may add to the exoticism. If this is too much trouble you can throw a tea bag (Tazo) into a mug with boiling water. The problem is - the selfish, ego-centric obnoxious expatriate characters who are difficult to sympathise with. If you can't get over this aspect you'll have a difficult time getting involved...and instead of shedding tears, you may start rolling your eyes or start yawning. Most people I know who are visual oriented, i.e. artists, art directors, creative directors - love this film. But if plot is more important to you there isn't much of one and if you love excitement there isn't much of that either. At least it doesn't come across in the execution. So despite the rave reviews this film gets from most - I would have to say it's not for everyone. If you like romantic, beautiful films and nothing more is required - by all means: BUY IT!
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Production Year: 1995 - Drama - Director: Pat O'Connor - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over, 15 years and over - Starring: Geraldine O'Rawe, Colin Firth, Saffron Burrows, Minnie Driver, Chris O'Donnell
Drama - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: Shelagh Fraser, Barbara Flynn, Keith Drinkel, Felicity Kendal, Pam Ferris, Colin Douglas
Production Year: 2004 - Drama - Director: Nick Cassavetes - Original Language: English - Classification: 15 years and over, 12 years and over - Starring: Rachel McAdams, Ryan Gosling, Gena Rowlands
I know what you mean. I live in France and I live with these bu**ars and know just what you feel.
CareBear 24.11.2003 14:30
I simply adored this film. Good to read some real "opinion" on a film. Get the balance with factual info right and you could have some cracking reviews!
SueMagee 24.11.2003 13:09
It's always useful when you're reviewing a film or a book to give an outline of the plot (no spoilers though!) as this helps people to decide if it's something they'd like to see/read. Sue.
Sparkling_Angel 02.04.2004 (02.04.2004)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: somewhat helpful
Review of The English Patient (DVD)