Amazingly strong cast. Really interesting combination of characters and character interactions. I was so enthralled by this movie's content, visual style, and pacing.

The beginnings of a good film. Joan Allen had the most complete character - the others needed more development. The screenplay was interesting but, again, it was too short to explore all these characters and ideas thoroughly.

It's a bit frustrating that this film, an ensemble drama which treads precisely the same ground as 'Magnolia' and 'American Beauty' would just two years later, received attention so disproportionate with its quality. I still don't understand how Ang ... (read more) It's a bit frustrating that this film, an ensemble drama which treads precisely the same ground as 'Magnolia' and 'American Beauty' would just two years later, received attention so disproportionate with its quality. I still don't understand how Ang Lee has a firmer grasp on the most subtle elements of American culture than almost any other working director. There's endless complexity in the nuances of the actors' exchanges, it should easily stand up to repeated viewings. Essential within its genre.

Some cashier at Borders said that his mom couldn't watch this movie because it depicted the era too well.

True story.

totally realistic and pretty depressing. there's alot going on too. amazing movie, though. rad cast. alot more detail in how the characters interact than most movies i've seen, and it lets u decide alot of stuff for urself.

One of my favorite movies about family life in the 1970s. Full of adult and adolescent sexual angst. The entire cast is stellar. Katie Holmes onscreen debut. It actually prompted me to read the novel and I think Ang Lee did a smashing job in bringing... (read more) One of my favorite movies about family life in the 1970s. Full of adult and adolescent sexual angst. The entire cast is stellar. Katie Holmes onscreen debut. It actually prompted me to read the novel and I think Ang Lee did a smashing job in bringing this great book to the screen.

I remember wanting to see this in 1997 when it was in theaters. I just now finally got around to seeing it in 2009. Well cast, well acted, and well directed - but thoroughly unimpressive and kind of pointless. I didn't really care about any of the ch... (read more) I remember wanting to see this in 1997 when it was in theaters. I just now finally got around to seeing it in 2009. Well cast, well acted, and well directed - but thoroughly unimpressive and kind of pointless. I didn't really care about any of the characters. This film is hard at work being ok.