Raskolnikov

I delayed from watching this movie for a LONG time. I've never been a Will Smith fan, and I'd been put off by the hype. I basically caught it on HBO when I had nothing better to do and was pleasantly surprised.

It's just a really fun movie. I like SFX films like this that present something close to reality, but just twist it a little bit to give us something a bit perculiar. Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones make the perfect pair, it's easily Smith's best vehicle yet. Right before his ego got TOO big. Linda Fiorentino makes the most of her role too.

The visual effects are original and fun, and the story has enough momentum and impact to keep you interested for it's length, but at the same time doesn't take itself seriously at all. Men in Black is one of the few big budget Hollywood movies that I'd actually look forward to a sequel from.

• 7/10

This was VERY disappointing. The whole thing is just lacks any weight at all and thus it never becomes remotely engaging. I couldn't have given a damn about any of the characters which makes for very dull viewing.

Gwyneth Paltrow knows all the acting tricks but she delivers a performance without any substance or soul. I grew more and more tired of her as the film went on. Her performance is also far to self contained, she makes no connection at all with her cast mates.

The rest of the cast just wander around going through the motions with only Jeremy Northam making any sort of impression with his far to little screen time. He's an actor on the rise and much better than this film.

The makers of Emma seems to think that simply because it's a period film somehow alone makes it 'worthy', but the film is just a piece of emptiness.

If you want to see a film version of Emma then rent Clueless. It's just as lightweight as this film but at least it's funny, and even if Alicia Silverstone doesn't have the technical skill of Paltrow, at least she put some charm and feeling into her performance.

I thought this film was moderately satisfying the first time I saw it but it wasn't until the second time, that I realised how good it really is. It's one of those rare films that is entertaining on a base level, and actually improves the more you think about it. It's very moving and meaningful with just the right amount of humour. It presents a very down-to-earth representation of life and love that you don't often get in movies.

I have read all the comments praising Natalie Portman here, and I have to say, that while she was good, she did not dominate the movie the way some are implying. I have a feeling there are a lot of teenage boys making these comments. She was just one of a great ensemble lead by a wonderful Timothy Hutton who for some reason, doesn't get enough good work anymore. Other standouts are a career best turn by Michael Rapaport, and Uma Thurman in a radiant cameo appearance. Recommended.