Review of Birth (2004) by Todd F — 20 Jul 2008

Kubrickesque in its general feel, this movie I found spellbinding. Quite honestly, I didn't know what to expect, but was prepared for the worst. Imagine my surprise when I went on to be totally mesmerised.

I found it thoughtul, poised, human, provocative and compelling. The whole film had me remarkably attentive - I didn't want to miss a word or a gesture.

There's a scene in which Anna sits in a theatre- and you can obviously see the angst in her as she tries to deal with something that's playing out in her mind - that Kidman deserves praise for.

Whilst many miss some of the more profound subtexts of the movie and instead focus on the suggestion of pedophilia - a prosaic, frustrating and disappointing issue on the periphery of this films messages - I find focusing on such a discussion like this like talking about the cutlery that was lost on the Titanic. There's a much larger issue you seem to have missed.

I can't tell you how much I appreciated the film for its subtleties, weight and reverent treatment of its loftier themes.

Any film where I honestly felt like applauding at the end of it or shaking somebody's hand to congratulate them deserves five stars.

"You can think whatever you want.

Everybody can think what they want.

I'm who I say I am.".