This movie didn't get much critical attention, which should have tipped me off that it might be worth seeing, given the complete uselessness of film criticism in the past few years. Anyway, it was outstanding, for reasons that are hard to pin down. Acting, direction, scenery, musical score -- all conspired to keep my eyes riveted to the screen for the entire two hours. Subtle, unexpected plot twists, frank, unsentimental treatment of serious issues (sex and death) -- all of these put most recent American movies to shame. (Fargo, which this movie reminded me of a lot, is the most notable exception.) Unlike other commentators, I found not one scene to be gratuitous or out of place. Everything and everyone is treated with a kind of austere gentleness that raises the film from entertainment to high art.
Run Lola Run was brilliant; Winter Sleepers is sublime.
Run Lola Run was brilliant; Winter Sleepers is sublime.