BradWesley123's Movie Journal- February 2012

I now see why everybody is angry that this didn't win Best Picture; it's much better than Crash (though if I being totally honest, I thought Munich was the best film of 2005). Unfairly disregarded as the "gay cowboy" movie at the time of it's release, it's still just as powerful today. The cast is incredible, and Ang Lee's direction is subtly effective.

While I've never truly been a fan of Malick's storytelling style, it works pretty well here. Granted, I still have no idea what I watched; it gets really pretentious at times, and indulges in a lot of Malick's worst ticks, but when it works it works. Even if they really don't have a lot to do, Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain do some strong work here. If there's one thing that I, or anybody really, can't fault are the visuals. There's not a shot in this movie that isn't pure artwork.

It was better than I expected, but I still don't think it was Best Picture worthy. The cast is strong, the music is first-rate, and it's great visually. The big problem though, lies at the center. Most of the time, it just comes off as being hollow.

After seeing it, I really don't understand all the hate. Maybe Raging Bull was better, maybe it wasn't, it really doesn't matter. Overall, this is a worthy Oscar winner featuring a great cast, solid writing, and subtle direction.