Review of Punch-Drunk Love (2002) by Kevin P — 21 Aug 2018

I am at a loss. I came to find a Blu-ray copy of this film, which is easily in my top-10 of all-time, and could not believe the low rating. This is one of those rare films that should not have been any other way than it was. I am not a huge fan of Paul Thomas Anderson in general; most of his films I can appreciate though many I'm not particularly fond of and would not choose to watch again."Punch-drunk Love" however is one that I watch at least once a year.

Sandler's performance is perfection in this role. There is rage, neurosis and sheer tenderness bubbling out of him in turn in each and every frame. I still remember vividly having to stop watching it about halfway through simply to take a break because it becomes such an anxiety-ridden ride, especially the first time when you've no real idea where in the heck the story is going. The soundtrack is maddeningly good. The script is fantastic. The cinematography is astoundingly well seen. It is, in my opinion, a near perfect film. I find more in it with each viewing. And what's more, it's buried message is touching and beautiful.