[.ca] Magnolia (Widescreen)

Putrid Garbage:
This has to be one of the worst films of all time. I'm certain many self proclaimed "sophisticated" viewers will enjoy the mindless dialogue and non-sensical plot, proclaiming this movie to be "artistic genius, " but the fact remains that the movie lacks focus, is disjointed, and is completely self-indulgent. The soundtrack is terrible and grates on your nerves throughout the movie, so much so I was tempted to stop the DVD during the opening sequence. Tom Cruise's performance has to be the only bright spot in this movie, which otherwise is a tedious waste of time. Do not buy/watch under any circumstances.

Powerful, impacting movie:
This is not a perfect movie but I think it comes across powerfully. The acting is superb. Tom Cruise's character suits him well and Julianne Moore plays her part so daringly that I ended up hating her and then pitying her. The other actors/actresses all do a great job. The film is fast-paced, a good thing considering it lasts about 3 hours. There is a coming together of several seemingly unrelated stories. A common thread that I picked up is the severe pains caused by personal, self-serving decisions that hurt loved ones. The message of the movie is powerful and compensates for some of what I consider the movie's shortcomings--such as the seemingly constant yelling and cursing--much usage of the f-word (just like in real life) and several scenes drowned out by loud music and an odd even of the sky raining bullfrogs, an event that plays an integral part in the climactic ends to the several stories.

Original Artistic Masterpiece:
This movie is a must see for anyone who appreciates artistic well thought out movies. If you are dumb then I don't recommend it as you will be unable to comprehend it's brilliance, most of the time these people will dimiss it with negative reviews just because they don't get it. .... And I quote Bob Dylan ' Don't criticize what you can't understand' A unique film run with fantastic acting and an undercurrent of genius. The music, Starring Aimee Man's Beautiful voice captures the atmosphere of the movie with insane accuracy as does the superb camera work. Well Done!

Just for the record. . .:
It really does rain frogs, though it is a rare occurance. I always get a bit peeved when people complain about that aspect of this wonderful film. Do a little research. It shouldn't take you long to find a dozen or so newspaper articles documenting frog storms. ". . .but it did happen."

Hoffman says::
Phillip Seymour Hoffman said: "I think Magnolia is one of the best films I've ever seen and I can say that straight out, and anybody that disagrees with me I'll fight you to the death. I just think it is one of the greatest films I've ever been in and ever seen." Amen Mr. Hoffman. To the death.