Log in / Sign up
 
    Share this page

    Cider House Rules

    Reviewed by
    pietroantoni@

    This incredible complex story with a cast of gold had me on the verge of tears more than one time. It is a timeless tale of the human condition that explores so many issues that are still with us today and will forever be with us.

    Tobey Maguire as an orphan boy, long away from home, under the tutelage of his mentor/doctor/caregiver (Michael Caine) gives the best performance he has ever given. And Sir Michael Caine shines in his Second Oscar Win as the old doctor. He was simply perfect. The film is an extremely graphic film in every detail: the language, violence, the sex, nudity, sexual abuse, INCEST and more are portrayed with a startling realism, one which is needed to accurately portray its life themes depicting life with all its pain, sometimes happiness but mainly "just trying to get buy". This feature is not appropriate even for adults who are faint of heart let alone teens of all ages.

    What makes this film an extraordinarily great one is first of all John Irving near perfect script and Lasse Hallstrom who directs the film of his career.

    The writing and direction make everything else possible. I could mention the truth of this set decoration, the amazing photography and go on about its merits ad infinitum. However, we have a cast who came prepared to give of their best. I have already mentioned the two male leads, but a young Charlize Theron shows a vulnerability and grace to make one understand why she will have a great career ahead of her. J. K. Simmons pops up in one of his million films as does Kate Nelligan and young Paul Rudd. But what tore my heart out was Erykah Badu, a great singing sensation of the latter 90's onward. I have no idea why she did not go on to star in more films aside from the fact that she is black and in 1999, not too many options were yet available for Afro-Americans. What Miss Badu must go through in her film debut, an ordeal of guilt, pain and shame only astounds as to the depth of performance of such a poor creature, seemingly born to suffer. I believe she honestly deserved an Oscar Nomination. I have such admiration for this film. Nothing, not one thing was cheap or vulgar or used for sensational purposes. This is a film I must see again.

    9
    HelpfulNot helpful  Reply
    pietroantoni@  17.3.2015 age: 36-49 14,540 reviews

    Show all reviews for this movie
    Note: The movie review posted on this page reflects a personal opinion of one user. We are not responsible for its content.

    Did you see ''Cider House Rules''?

    There is a problem with your e-mail address and we are unable to communicate with you. Please go to My Account to update your email.

    How do you rate this movie?

    Select stars from 1 to 10.
    10 - A masterpiece, go, see it now
    9 - Excellent movie, a must see
    8 - Great movie, don't miss it
    7 - Good movie, worth seeing
    6 - Not bad, could be much better
    5 - So so, okay if you don't pay
    4 - Not good, even if you don't pay
    3 - Poor movie, not recommended
    2 - Very bad, forget about it
    1 - Worst ever, avoid at all costs

    Please explain. Write your comment here:

    Please choose a username to sign your comments. Only letters, digits, dash - or period. Minimum 4 characters.

    Your age and sex:

    We publish all comments, except abusive, at our discretion.