Exceeded my large expectations. One of the best films of 2004 with my personal Oscar win for Best Actress. It's an extremely compelling and unique mystery thriller with intricate characters and a storyline that could easily become absurd and convoluted but feels natural and McGuigan allows the viewer to be fully aware of what's happening. It never gets too far ahead of the audience but it doesn't drag for a second. The editing is flawless and meshes the present with the not-so-distant past perfectly. Josh Hartnett delivers a surprisingly emotional performance and adds another strong performance to his recent resume that has really transcended him from the horrific heartthrob clique he was placed in when he first came onto the scene into a serious, talented actor. But the real star of the film is the beautiful Rose Byrne who, as always, delivers a knockout performance that is easily one of the best of the decade. She takes this psychopathic character and somehow makes her immensely sympathetic. I actually found myself rooting for her to be with Matt. Simply with her eyes she portrays this wounded, internally saddened character effortlessly. As I always am when seeing her act, I was completely entranced and amazed. A stunning performance in a brilliant film.
Review of Wicker Park
