Stylish but barely mediocre overall

Brilliant and touching

It is both painfully honest and laugh-out-loud funny at the same time.

This is a coming of age storyline that you've seen in one form or another for decades. It takes a truly unique voice to make yet another one worth watching.

Coming from the early days of film and television to this movie is a truly incredible journey. All the more remarkable because while his lead actors were seasoned and talented indeed young director/writer/adapter Stone left no emotion less than fully unrevealed. The confrontation of daughter and 'father' was unbearably tragic and painful - and wrenchingly believable. Much has been written and awards have been given so sufficient to say congratulations to all from an old timer who appreciates where - at last - we have got to. A world class film.

I think this is the first review I have written on IMDb. I can't believe this movie is only rated 6.8. I haven't seen a play or read any book upon which this film is based, so I am rating this film based purely on its own merits. This is one of the most powerful movies I have seen in a long while. Performances were excellent. It's not often a movie leaves me stunned. Highly recommended

The movie starts from nowhere and ends ... nowhere. Predictable and boring I don't recommend this movie to anyone. The theme is adequate for a movie made just after World War II when anything was acceptable. Rush, as expected, put on a marvelous performance as did the other cast members. Unfortunately, the director did a pretty lousy job. And this is evident throughout the movie.

Much has been said already; slick direction, outstanding performances from the entire cast, especially those we are unfamiliar with on the screen and a brilliant story, 140 years old, that cements as the bed rock. (Rush is quite deliciously understated).I only have two objections. The editing style is unique (dialogue preceding the scene, or carrying over other parts that is not natural but interesting). However I feel the director relies on it too heavily, passing up the potential for good drama. This is especially noticeable in a confrontation between Sam Neill and Geoffrey Rush. The tension is passed over in favour of technique. An error.The other objection is that the director claims the play 'Inspires' the screenplay. Despite the changes, it's the same story. It should be 'based upon'. Its an obvious flex of ego.Minor points aside, this a top notch, captivating drama in all regards, showing the complexities of human relations, and that truth is not always the right option. Ah, the intricate web we often unintentionally weave.