I was surprised at the unadulterated praise this film received. While it was an accurate and sometimes gripping portrayal of man destroyed by a fearsome upbringing, aspects of the film like the blank, detached voiceover and very bookish dialogue destroyed the effect and impact of the story. It was very dark but unlike other films in the confessional/tell-all drama this film failed to illicit sympathy for the protagonist caught in the grip of his demons. Nick Nolte's character was unpleasant and pathetic from start to finish. In fact most of the characters were, lacking even the charm and vitality of real life much less what viewers expect of the big screen.
The mysterious appearance and later disappearance of the younger brother was distracting as well. When the film ended I was relieved albeit horrified. A good idea, a less than perfect execution.
The mysterious appearance and later disappearance of the younger brother was distracting as well. When the film ended I was relieved albeit horrified. A good idea, a less than perfect execution.