Review of The Cider House Rules (1999) by Jeffrey M — 04 Sep 2014

Orphans, a world war, lost souls, tragedy, and yet an underlying current of hope and love, Cider House Rules is a drama that has it all. Revisiting it 15 years after its release date, I couldn't help but be impressed by the shear ambition on screen and the resulting emotions. Set during World War II, Cider House Rules tells the story of a young man, Homer Wells, who spent his entire life in an Orphanage, seemingly groomed as the successor for the caretaker, only to embark on a journey of his own.

Uniquely, the best thing about Cider House Rules is the score. It is simply brilliant, resonating deeply, and being enchanting, sad, and reminiscent. This really sets the stage for the film, which has a bit of a vintage feel to it. There are many story lines introduced, with Homer anchoring the entire story. The films focus seems to be not so much on individual stories, rather the tapestry they form, and how these relationships form to create such a fantastical, yet brutal world. The performances are very strong all around, each adding their own layer to the narrative. I would count this is perhaps Tobey Maguire's best performance, with excellent chemistry between him and Charlize Theron. Director Lasse Hallstrom fills the screen with beautiful visuals, and a strong pace. It doesn't feel manipulative, rather it feels inquisitive in its approach, and non-judgmental in its observations.

Overall, one could say that Cider House Rules does flirt with melodrama. However, I found it to be largely authentic in its execution, and often moving. I would have liked more time to be spent with the characterizations, though the film has many big personalities to explore.

Very Strong.

4/5 Stars.