Dr. Strangeblog (DrStrangeblog)

Stunning visual recreation/imagination of WWI France as Audrey Tautou clings to hope that her fiancee was not actually killed in the trenches, contrary to the assumptions of her family. Her resolute search for the truth comprises the whole movie, a long journey filled with flashbacks as evidence is uncovered piece by piece.

Jeunet builds upon his dreamlike mastery of scenery and set decoration as seen in 'Amelie' and creates a France from another time, and yet a place OUT of time. Has the Paris market ever looked this sumptuous or French countryside appeared this resplendent? Maybe yes, maybe no, but Jeunet's skill at blending reality with digital enhancement is seamless.

I wish Audrey Tautou's character had more variation, but her only focus is finding her betrothed; as such she conveys that determination effectively. The supporting players are all superb, including the Jeunet regular Dominique Pinon, future Oscar winner Marion Cotillard as a vengeful prostitute, and Jodie Foster effectively speaking fluent French - not often an American actor takes on the challenge that we are so used to seeing from foreign actors in English-language films.

In addition to the beauty, there are many scenes that depict the brutally harsh life of soldiers engaged in trench warfare, as viscerally realistic as any war movie. But there are also some surprising, delightful moments of comedy sprinkled throughout. A long journey but a twenty course feast for the eyes.

Wildly overrated by some prominent critics, this is a fairly straightforward coming-of-age story of a young man with an unusual upbringing. Probably the most cozy look at an orphanage since the musical "Annie" but that depiction creates most of the charm - an orphanage IS a home for some children. Does not stray far from a comfortable path, subplots of abortion and incest are dealt with tactfully and tacitly. The Cider House Rules creates no large dramatic waves and perhaps only should rate 3 stars, but I strangely enjoy Tobey Maguire's low-key, gently optimistic demeanor that he exhibits in many of his roles. Michael Caine is typically solid, but Oscar caliber for this role?? The only element in this movie more fake than his accent is Tobey's medical credentials.

The blackest of black comedies released during the height of the Cold War is sheer genius. Peter Sellers masterfully plays three roles while George C. Scott takes a hilarious turn as a gung-ho general. Scathing, sobering, and an all-time classic.