This is a film that needs watching more than once to get all the subtle symbolisms and meanings. Heck, I've BOUGHT this film, and keep noticing something new each time I view it. As an English teacher, I suggest that those who don't get it, try again. Maybe it's just over your head?
As far as the acting goes, I was initially disappointed at the lack of clear emotions being expressed. But as time goes on, I've decided I appreciate the low-key displays of emotion - certainly closer to real life than the usual soap-opera acting present in such an emotionally-charged movie, As for the plausibility of the story line, anyone who has a relative or friend being treated for cancer knows the importance of mind-over-body techniques; and certainly patients who tire easily will sometimes feel the need to use a wheelchair, and sometimes not - that is not the big issue here. The screenplay does a fairly accurate job of showing life in a long-term care facility, while restricting itself to a relatively small number of characters. What you want to consider is... what would your decision be, considering all the consequences?
Did anyone else watch all the way to the end of the credits and notice that at the end of the "Special Thanks to..." list they included a priest, and Elijah Wood's mother and sister? I HAVE seen all his previous movies, and this is the only time they have been listed. I'd love to know the true story behind that. Verrry interesting, hmm?
As far as the acting goes, I was initially disappointed at the lack of clear emotions being expressed. But as time goes on, I've decided I appreciate the low-key displays of emotion - certainly closer to real life than the usual soap-opera acting present in such an emotionally-charged movie, As for the plausibility of the story line, anyone who has a relative or friend being treated for cancer knows the importance of mind-over-body techniques; and certainly patients who tire easily will sometimes feel the need to use a wheelchair, and sometimes not - that is not the big issue here. The screenplay does a fairly accurate job of showing life in a long-term care facility, while restricting itself to a relatively small number of characters. What you want to consider is... what would your decision be, considering all the consequences?
Did anyone else watch all the way to the end of the credits and notice that at the end of the "Special Thanks to..." list they included a priest, and Elijah Wood's mother and sister? I HAVE seen all his previous movies, and this is the only time they have been listed. I'd love to know the true story behind that. Verrry interesting, hmm?