Review of Leaving Las Vegas (1995) by Ben A — 15 Jul 2008

This film is a masterpiece in my heart, period, I saw it many years ago and still is the number one in my top 10. I knew when I saw it that I had just had the privilege of witnessing a most beautiful work.

For me, it was one of those experiences that changes the way you see the world and yourself. The main performances here by Elizabeth Shue and Nicolas Cage are extraordinary. Both. Cage received an Oscar.

...but to my great dismay, Elizabeth Shue did not and was basically unrecognized. Actually, I believe that as her character in the movie itself, she was the "angel" of the film in the sense that her heart lit this film in a real way.

Why this movie was basically looked over and is not recognized more is beyond me. Well I guess when a movie like Titanic (souped up and struggling with superficiality with the exception of Leo DiCaprio-saved the girl and the film) is the big winner, it's not surprised that a rare jewel like Leaving Las Vegas is more or less ignored.

I'm not going to tell you what it's about, that's not really possible, it's an experience you need to see and have for yourself. My wishes for you....that the heart of this movie give water to you on your journey as Sera "gave water" to Ben.

One more thing, the soundtrack is amazing, I heard it before I saw the movie, and that soundtrack made me look for the movie, so I highly recommend it too.