Aegina1028

Virtually every aspect of this movie strains credulity: an intelligence genius who is apparently unaware of her own basement, "Dr. Mengele" bonding with the son of one of the victims in a matter of hours, the immense fame of a member of the VP's staff based on deliberations the public wasn't privy to.... I could go on. I don't think there's any aspect of the movie that could bear more than a moment's contemplation before appearing absurd. But the acting is good and the moral issues timely; it's an entertaining way to spend two hours.

I admit that I'm not into chick-flicks as a rule, especially the kind that require weeping at someone's death. So I'm not the ideal reviewer. Still, I have to say it's been a long time since I've seen so many talented actors doing such a fine job in such a slight and trivial film.

The movie is beautifully shot and there's some decent dialogue, but one keeps waiting for it to add up to something much more than it does. Meryl Streep gets the best lines in her brief appearance. There are also some gaping plot holes, but they seem minor in comparison to the holes left by the absence of the male characters. I don't know if it's an oversight or a cynical marketing ploy, but the few men who actually appear for more than a minute or two on screen exist only as suitors to the women. And if we are expected to take seriously the notion that anyone's "only real love" could be someone they barely know over a span of about thirty-six hours, then our culture has reached a level of superficiality that... well, never mind; I guess we're already there.

They're a lot more fun. Plus, it adds a layer of appreciation if you are familiar with the voice talent. Perhaps it's because my husband is British, but I'm one American who really enjoyed this and who shudders to think of Britney Spears doing Jane Horrocks' role. I agree that it's not as terrific as Hooves of Fire, and I too noticed the absence of Vixen, but I thought overall it was very funny and clever, and my 18-month-old daughter seemed to enjoy it as well. I'd love another sequel. Perhaps I just differ from other Americans in terms of what I'm looking for -- I don't need "holiday cheer" or to be "uplifted" (although I found both here, actually) -- I just need intelligent writing and some decent acting, both of which are supplied here in abundance.

Worth seeing if only for Anthony LaPaglia, who turns in his usual amazing performance. As a New Yorker, I was affected, but those who complain that the structure is inherently undramatic have a point: a film about observing and reacting to grief is necessarily at a remove.

I barely DO have the strength to comment after suffering through this film! I'll match my indie-cerebral bona fides with anyone, but believe me, I'd rather watch a Bruckheimer marathon followed by back-to-back showings of Maid in Manhattan than ever see this again!