Ottawa

Just saw it on TV (A&E) unfortunately broken up with a slew of interminable commercials. It is the kind of movie that I enjoy although I agreed with the comment above that I could understand how some would not like it. I am in the minority on this I know, but I didn't like Spacey's performance that much and I am a Kevin Spacey fan. For awhile I thought the point of the movie was that he was somehow mentally retarded. My wife, however, thaought he was great and that he had just the right tone to convey the down and out sort of guy he was at the beginning.

8/10
davefoc@ - first review
22.11.2004 - age: 50+

Great movie.

10/10
lyverdl@ - first review
7.3.2004 - age: 26-35

I love Kevin Spacey as an actor, but this movie was extremely slow moving that all three of us watching the movie had fallen asleep.

4/10
joyce.lee@ - 5 reviews
19.3.2003 - age: 26-35

I loved it but would understand someone else not being thrilled. Nothing amazing happens. There are no car chases or things blowing up. Basically it is a character development story. Kevin Spacey was superb. Should have won an oscar. DO NOT READ THE BOOK FIRST. Movie is very different from the book, but the book was good too. Read it after. Storyline was good and advanced well.

7/10
mchapman001@ - 43 reviews
21.2.2003 - age: 26-35

The movie was exceptional for the scenery of Newfounland, the good story line, and the great performances. Loved every minute of it.

9/10
b.tiffin@ - first review
27.10.2002 - age: 50+

The movie was well done and it was skillful in the way it protrays the plot but there wasn't enough definition on the crucial characters!!!

7/10
supernovagirl_9@ - first review
22.10.2002 - age: 13-17

I found this movie to be very well done in the acting category, because I'm sure it was very hard for the American and British Actors and Actresses to play a Newfoundlander. But in the way of the story outline, it was poorly done. I am a Newfoundlander, and my grandparents did not have my father when they were 12 or 14, and no incense was ever involved within my family and any families that I know of from Newfoundland. I really didn't like how this image of our culture and history was perpetrated in this film because it makes Newfoundland out to be something that we're really not. But I guess from all the comments that I've read here that it's only been the Newfoundlanders seeing these problems, and not foreigners. I guess that means that nobody really noticed this and still wish to come and visit Newfoundland, and for this I'm glad, cause we really aren't like the movie makes us out to be.

6/10
stephroni@ - first review
1.8.2002 - age: 18-25

Very realistic and excellent performance by Kevin Spacey and Dame Julie Dench. A stark Newfoundland as the background, I enjoyed watching how life unfolded in surprizing ways for the protagonist and his free spirited daughter.

8/10
feride17@ - 2 reviews
30.3.2002 - age: 36-49

I didn't read the book, but did enjoy the movie. The actors were excellent, the story was interesting, and a good mix of humour. Beautiful scenery from Nfld. Complimented this talented movie!

8/10
gregpitre@ - 2 reviews
20.3.2002 - age: 26-35

If you've read the book, you'll love the movie. E. Annie Proulx's top-selling novel was handled with kid gloves and the results are terrific. Kevin Spacey does an admirable job. Judy Dench, as uausal, is terrific.

9/10
bullmail@ - first review
12.3.2002 - age: 36-49

I absolutely loved The Shipping News. At first it seemed a little bit weird but it the end I walked out of the cinema with this wonderful warmth surrounding me and the actors were just great. Especially Jason Behr. I can´t wait to read the book and see how I feel after.

8/10
svartros@ - first review
9.3.2002 - age: 13-17

Yes, good story, excellent performance by Spacey and Moore, and WONDERFUL JASON BEHR, I LOVE HIM. By Nicky.

9/10
nicoletta@ - first review
3.3.2002 - age: 26-35

The book made me curious about Newfoundland and I read whatever I could find out about it. It also made me keen to visit the province. What an interesting history. I was keen to see the film and very happy to see that real Newfoundland locations were used. What breathtaking scenery! The house at Quoyle Point was just as I had pictured it. Newfoundland is certainly one place I would love to visit one day. I was a little disappointed in the film as it just skimmed the surface of the book. Still, I was glad that I saw it. I am from Australia..

6/10
mthit@ - first review
14.2.2002 - age: 50+

Great movie to cuddle up with someone and enjoy. Glad I read the book as it would have left me wondering what really happened. Between the movie and the book I really understood this movie. Great to see the ocean and remember the people who are warm and friendly not like a few places I have gone. A place time forgot and that is why most Newfoundlander always wants to return to the Rock. Like they say "Newfoundland is a stat of mind", peacefull, friendly and clean air. Sit back enjoy the movie don't be a critic and we know there are far too many of them.

9/10
do_u_2@ - first review
10.2.2002 - age: 36-49

This movie was inspirational, delightful, and most of all "all it's cracked up to be". I am from Nfld and growing up around "The Bay", the outskirts of Nfld, is indeed quite similar to the scenes in Nfld. Mind you... another way of saying there are places in Nfld that are much more occupied and yes have malls, indoor toilets (not the out-houses) , and running water to get a shower from time to time. This movie moved me in a special and enlightening way. The bye's (Actors/Actresses} did a great job. Here's to good old Newfoundland. Take er' easy my son, see you all again.

10/10
skjf645@ - first review
7.2.2002 - age: 26-35

I'm not the biggest Kevin Spacy fan nor am I a big Julieanne Moore fan! But this movie was really really good!! I didn't look at it as a newfoundlander movie I just looked at it as a movie! But the only thing I didn't like about this movie and it's pretty minor is the accents portrayed... now I know newfoundlanders have different accents then the rest of us westcoasters but COMMON!! I'm sure they all don't sound IRISH!

9/10
nurplepurple@ - 5 reviews
6.2.2002 - age: 26-35

This was one of my favorite novels. And any time I read a good book I often wonder who would best play each part in a movie. I have to say each part in this movie was well casted; especially Kevin Spacey and Judi Dench. I highly recommend this movie and bravos to all the actors in it.

9/10
nannydonna@ - first review
5.2.2002 - age: 50+

I would have preferred "Real Newfoundlander Actors" such as Gordon Pincent himself to play the lead roles. As one writer wrote, missing is the dialects, the winks & nods, the jokes, the dearest of all the silly threats and the hearty laughter that Newfoundlanders bring with their vibrant personalities. If you must make a Canadian movie, make it CANADIAN. Make it with "reality" and see the difference for yourself. I "am" a proud Newfoundlander, dialect complete, full of fun and life, and indeed one that has a vibrant sense of humor... and so on, and so ON... is there not a Canadian amongst us who could not have done the job, and done it well?... frail are those who have forgotten you! Or... perhaps "embarrassed of the heritage that connect them to such wonderful people! " Canada is full of such realism from West to the East, Central and so on... take your pick or do your research. Why let them escape across the border? Kevin Spacey and the complete cast are wonderful actors and actresses, but not "Newfies" and definitely could not convince true Canadians as such. The movie itself is good, but threw a wrench in it without the actual people... CANADIANS. THIS "IS" CANADA... least we forget!

6/10
pjackman8@ - first review
5.2.2002 - age: 50+

Yes I saw the movie, The Shipping News. I thought the movie was very refreshing compared some of the trash Hollywood puts accross the screen. I watch a lot of movies and this is one I found to be very believeable. Keven Spacey was fantastic and Quole's Point was absolutely breath taking. I can just imagine what it looks like in July instead of January. The producing and directing was fantastic. This is a movie worth seeing again and again. Congratulations to the actors and everyone else involved for some wonderful intertainment. P.

10/10
ursclarke@ - first review
3.2.2002 - age: 50+

Yes. While the visuals are stunning and the cast is stellar, I was disappointed in the one-dimensional portrayal of Newfoundlanders. The culture, humour, strength and tenacity of the citizens of Newfoundland includes and incorporates more than just fish, alcohol and fog. In addition, the cast could have benefitted from a linguistic coach who was raised in Newfoundland. Gordon Pinsent was the only believable Newfoundlander because he is one.

7/10
jgbond@ - first review
31.1.2002 - age: 36-49

This movie has no begining, no middle and no end. BUT somehow I loved it!!! I just hope it is a start of a good year where Hollywood is coming out with new and fresh ideas instead of the same old recycled garbage.

8/10
clifford@ - 9 reviews
29.1.2002 - age: 26-35

I loved this movie! It was surprisingly very funny! Kevin Spacey is great as always.

9/10
staciep@ - 72 reviews
29.1.2002 - age: 18-25

It was a fantastic movie. It will hopefully help put Canada on the map as a great place to shoot movies. It was well written and acted. It shows how Newfoundland and Labrador is so spectaular.

10/10
hotpinklobster@ - first review
27.1.2002 - age: 36-49

Having personally spent a lot of time travelling the outports of Newfoundland I think this movie captured life in these small villages quite well. Newfoundland is a wonderful place and really isn't quite so barren as the movie would have you believe. Yes it movie wasn't perfect due to a lack of actual Newfoundlanders but really, a movie with unknown actors about Newfoundland would not have been as successful. After all they have to keep some of their culture a surprise for when you go. You can't squeeze all of Newfoundland in a short movie.

9/10
seadog@ - first review
25.1.2002 - age: 18-25

Touching story and wonderful images of Newfoundland landscapes...

8/10
mpanta1@ - 3 reviews
24.1.2002 - age: 18-25

Horrible disappointment! The character Quoyle is an unappealing nim wit and Kevin Spacey portrayed him so well, that there seemed to be absolutely no chemistry between him and Julienne Moore. I never want to go see Newfoundland ever after seeing this movie. It seemed very desolate. The psycho stuff was stupid from the little girl. The only thing worth watching was Cate Blanchett - a talented cameleon. I never read the book, and now don't want to.

3/10
abrockman@ - 3 reviews
23.1.2002 - age: 36-49

I thought the movie had a sensitive side and compassionate side to it. It made you relax and enjoy the people helping each other in the town, and the scenery, was peaceful, not to mention the town itself with the historial background!

7/10
stolzkaren70@ - 8 reviews
19.1.2002 - age: 50+

I had heard nothing about this film before seeing it, and was delighted to find a break from the usual hollywood fare. The acting was superb and the scenery breathtaking despite its barreness. Hallstrom deserves an award for the directing of this piece!

9/10
robindirks@ - first review
19.1.2002 - age: 26-35

A very good adaptation of the novel. Minor changes but still captures the heart of the characters and the place. Spacey, Moore and the supporting cast flawlessly ace their characters. Gives you a good feel for "The Rock". A good solid piece of entertainment. Well worth seeing.

7/10
hudtek@ - 58 reviews
19.1.2002 - age: 36-49

Great movie.. wonderful Newfie scenery and characters. Great to see Gordon Pinsent in such a wonderful movie that is attracting attention south of the border.

9/10
spwindle@ - first review
18.1.2002 - age: 36-49

It's a good movie. Kevin Spacey... great as usual!

7/10
mayxox@ - 2 reviews
18.1.2002 - age: 18-25

I know little or nothing about Newfoundland, but this movie has actually interested me in The Rock (and I don't mean the muscle-bound wrestler) Watching this movie stirred all sorts of emotions and mostly, left me feeling emotionally drained, just a leak, not a blow out. The characters were, wow... you could feel for each and every one, well, except Petal (but Cate Blanchett is a great actress) Kevin Spacey and Julianne Moore were great, I love Gordon Pinsent and Jason Behr. I walked out feling like the rocks that the waves batter against, but in a good way. I was thinking that oddly, this could have been called "Life As A House". Almost too many themes for one film, easier to take in a book than a movie. But definitely shows how the human spirit endures.

8/10
parkerd891770802@ - 116 reviews
15.1.2002 - age: 26-35

A very well made film. Excellent photography. Same old Spacey. His pace seems to slow the film down. It's a good movie but not great.

7/10
dwstutt@ - 4 reviews
15.1.2002 - age: 36-49

The essence of E. Annie Proulx's book was successfully captured in this movie. It was very well done. Kevin Spacey played a very convincing Quoyle. The scenery of Newfoundland was awesome!

9/10
klwilke@ - first review
14.1.2002 - age: 36-49

Seeing the film without having read the book, one is left to connect the dots and form a picture that is likely much better drawn in literature. Nonetheless, the acting is first class; despite seeming slightly dopey and gullible, Spacey as Quoyle is really sympathetic, and Dench as his aunt is a gem. Scott Glenn is not quite believable as a Newfoundlander, least of all a Bayman, but at least he can act. The uncast character in the whole thing is, of course, Newfoundland. The scenery dominates when ever the director gives it a chance. Everything seems to cling to a rock as refuge from the power of the sea. The phlegmatic inhabitants complete a cinematic ecosystem that, despite the rawness of its nature, really welcomes the viewer, all the while filling one with a foreboding until one finds one's place in it.

9/10
griffin_crescent@ - first review
12.1.2002 - age: 36-49

This movie is excellent. Cate Blanchett once again proves she is the foremost actress of our times, and that no role is too big or small for her. Nevertheless all other players, and the movie production staff were excellent as well. Kevin Spacey does a good job as always. While I have never been to NFLD, I have seen some of the bleakness of its art, and this movie depicted some of that. But while bleak, the movie also depicted the vibrant life of the little town. We need more movies that depict the world of Canadian life, by Canadian and international talent.. Most of the audience were in our age group, 50 plus, which I think is rarely seen in movies to-day. Go and see it..

9/10
fjarlie@ - 2 reviews
9.1.2002

Well I am from Newfoundland and I saw The Shipping News and I thought it was wonderful display of Newfoundland. I hear a lot about the accents, but I thought they were fine. Nobody, not even a Newfoundlander can imitate a Newfoundland accent. It is different in almost every community you visit. I can cannot comment on the portrayal compared to the book because I did not read it, but lets face it no movie can live up to a book. It did seem that a number of events were cramed together, but that is Hollywood. It was a slow going, good hearted movie just like Newfoundlanders are.

8/10
dunntrevor@ - first review
9.1.2002 - age: 26-35

Yes, good story, excellent performance by Spacey and Moore.

7/10
andyporto@ - first review
6.1.2002 - age: 50+

I have to agree with my fellow critics when I say the movie was gold but the dialects were completely not believeable. I mean lets face it, newfies don't sound irish, nor scottish which was the median the actors chose to navigate through. Overall I enjoyed the movie, but those expecting to see an action pact film would have been better served not attending the feature. By the name and the synopsis, it was clear to me that the movie would not rock the boat but rather would be easy going and slow paced. The critiques about its being boring and without plot are unfair and misplaced. I enjoyed the movie even though it was a little too slow moving for my taste. If your up to a quiet evening, and decent acting a definiate must see.

8/10
kwaisy@ - 4 reviews
6.1.2002 - age: 18-25

After reading the book I was curious as to how it would translate to the big screen. The movie captured the mood quite well but Kevin Spacey was not physically at all like the book character, nevertheless as a good actor he carried it off well. It fell short of my expectations, the book had a lot more detail and feel for Newfoundland.

6/10
margh@ - 13 reviews
4.1.2002 - age: 50+

I thought this movie was very well done and a pleasure to watch. Lalle Halstrom has captured the feeling of the book. Kevin Spacey and Julianna Moore were excellent. I really enjoyed the interaction of the characters in the newspaper office.

8/10
gneeb@ - first review
1.1.2002 - age: 36-49

I went to this movie to witness how Hollywood would treat and represent Newfoundland. I have to report that this movie is a very bleak depiction of the island, its people and culture. The mood of the film and the characters is somber and fails or dares not show any of the charm of the island and its people. Watching Americans and Brits play Newfies was a sad and pathetic thing indeed, and the locals that got on camera were cardboard characters at best. The movie scarcely moved more than ten feet from the ocean so you do not see very much of the island other than jagged coastline. I have not read the book so I can't comment on how well this film portrays the original story but if it's a close and accurate depiction, I wonder what all the fuss was all about in the first place.

4/10
robbinemail@ - 146 reviews
30.12.2001 - age: 36-49

Excellent film with very well structured characters.

7/10
smcvicar@ - 3 reviews
30.12.2001 - age: 50+

If you've never been to Newfoundland you're probably safe to go see it without wincing. Since it was filmed on location it certainly looked like Newfoundland, but it didn't FEEL like Newfoundland. For one thing, why didn't Hallstrom fill the movie with actors from Newfoundland to make it feel authentic? The British, American and Australian actors playing Newfoundlanders were just not believable. Besides getting the dialects wrong they forgot about the little things that comfort you when you're surrounded by Newfoundlanders... the irreverant humour, creative threats followed by hearty laughs, endearment phrases like "my love" and "my son" casually inserted into discourse with complete strangers, or the ubiquitous wink-and-nod gestures, etc. That entire rich and warm culture was lost at the movie's casting stage. Why did Gordon Pinsent, the only believable Newf (no surprise) get 6th rate billing in the credits? Add to that a musical score that sounded like it was lifted from a movie about medieval Ireland and you can't help but walk away shaking your head. The movie is largely faithful to the book, as I recall. Like the book, the movie was emotionally flat. Overall, I must say, I was quite disappointed.

5/10
chrisj@ - first review
29.12.2001 - age: 36-49

This was very well done! If you read the book you'll prolly like the movie and vice versa, although there were differences. Makes me want to visit Newfoundland.

9/10
l_schreck@ - first review
26.12.2001 - age: 26-35

I saw this movie on a free pass... the Spacey, Dench, Blanchett... all did a fine job. This dramedy may be slow going for some audience members, but I found it to be compelling, humerous, and just slightly off kilter which are three of my favourite pay offs for seeing a good movie. Adult themes contained within, so not for everyone. Oh, you might want to take a fellow Newfoundlander to help you in translating some of the dialogue as it gets tricky at times... maybe they should have had included subtitles! ;-)

7/10
blurofur@ - 15 reviews
21.12.2001 - age: 36-49

I thought this movie was great. It has great actors for the parts. It is very interesting because I didn't know what was going to happen next. I believe that everyone that has a chance to see this movie should go and see it cause it is an awesome movie. I don't like these types of movies but this movie just blew me away.

8/10
darkjedi@ - 5 reviews
21.12.2001 - age: 1-12

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