MOVIE REVIEW: Nominations for ‘The Hours’ are well deserved — Grade A-
Nominated for Best Picture, Actress, Supporting Actress, Director, Supporting Actor, Editing, Costumes, Original Score and Adapted Screenplay, it is not hard to see that this film is a cut above the normal Hollywood fare.
“The Hours” is stunning, provocative and startling. Every frame of this movie is haunting and at times disturbing, but the absolute endurance of the human spirit fills this movie with such a humanity that it is hard to figure out why people are not lining up to see it.
But then again, it is a drama based on a novel, lacks a strong action sequence and requires the audience to think and evaluate its own lives while watching. These all add up to low attendance, but make for a stunning experience.
“The Hours” is filled with so many impassioned moments, it is hard to actually give an idea of the magnitude of the experience. It is hard to pick out any one performance that was better than another. This is one of the strongest ensemble pieces I have seen in years. Every character was finely crafted, which is refreshing to see such great craft taking place on the screen.
This film is a triumph in filmmaking. It is emotional and evocative. I have always felt that movies that challenge the audience to step outside of themselves are the most rewarding to watch. This is no exception.
I have to admit, I normally like the light, fluffy movies filled with crass humor and juvenile attitudes, but I left this movie feeling better about life and about myself. This may not be true for everyone who walks into the theater, but I found this to be a revealing look at what makes the human psyche tick and how we all need to embrace life.
Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, Meryl Streep, Ed Harris and Toni Collette offer some of the finest acting in their careers.
Kidman has proved herself one of Hollywood’s most bankable actresses in the last two years. “The Hours” will only cement this. Her portrayal is tragic and yet heart-warming at the same time. Worthy of any award that would be bestowed upon her.
It is hard to provide an all-encompassing depiction of this film. In truth, there were so many small touches, one needs to see the film in order to understand and appreciate it. This is a fine film and worth the two hours spent in the theater.
Justin Berry is working toward his second bachelor’s degree in theater performance. Comments can be sent to justinsb26@hotmail.com.