Review of Sophie's Choice (1982) by Matt E — 25 Jan 2009
This is a hard movie to review, because this is a hard movie to watch. At it's fiery core lies not only one of the greatest performances in movie history, but also a meditative theme on the origin of choice.
Never mind that 2 and a half hour length, it's no problem. Although at times it feels exhaustive, Meryl Streep struts onto the screen and melts your heart. Her rendition of Sophie makes the actress disappear and an alternate reality come forward where she is a completely different person.
That is how much she vanishes into this role. The Polish accent is flawless, and every nuance of a tortured soul that is given a second chance is nailed. The infamous "choice" scene is one of the most wrenching scenes ever in a movie, and the mark it leaves on Sophie's soul is unsettling even from the comfort of your living room.
When Sophie utters the line "I have to tell you something," you feel it through your entire body. Although Streep is unmatchable, props are also due to Kevin Kline for giving his all. This is a movie that dwells in your head long after it is over.
It is not perfect, and it is not happy, but it becomes a part of you. That, to me, is the essence of the art of film.
This review of Sophie's Choice (1982) was written by Matt E on 25 Jan 2009.
Sophie's Choice has generally received very positive reviews.
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