Much of this effect is due to a remarkable script, which is by turns direct and subtle and repeatedly leads viewers into an "Oh, I get it!" frame of mind-- only to explode any preconception the viewer may have developed. What at first seems one type of film suddenly seems another, leading one from a date at the fair to a terrorist kidnapping to a love story to an assasination plot. Most remarkable of all, the script actually carries it off, pulling you effortlessly from one context to another with never a bump in the road. One really has to see the film more than once appreciate it's complexity.

The script is abetted by amazing camera work, which like the script itself astonishes with a mix of beauty and gritty realism. The performers are top-flight, and the characters have a depth which is generally lacking from most motion pictures. Like them or not, they are singularly believeable, and their reality creates a certain sense of inevitablity in the events which unfold around them. While all the performers are excellent, Miranda Richardson is a standout.

The Crying Game will not be every one's movie; it is an intellectual's game which requires a mature attitude and an open mind. But like it or not, it is a remarkable film which will probably out-live the more popular but considerably less powerful films of the decade.


An Outstanding Movie!   March 6, 2003
 9 out of 12 found this review helpful

"The Crying Game" shocked the bejesus out of me the first time I saw it with its great story and big "surprise". The immaculately crafted script and direction of Neil Jordan combined with stellar performances of Stephan Rea, Forrest Whitaker, Miranda Richardson, and the androgynously brilliant Jaye Davidson, make this a masterpiece of modern film making. It was nominated for several Oscars, including Best Picture, won Neil Jordan the Original Screenplay award, and the only reason Davidson didn't take home Supporting Actor was because of Gene Hackman ("Unforgiven"). Otherwise, he would have been a shoo-in.


THE ENDING WE ALL WANTED!!!!   January 31, 2005
 9 out of 11 found this review helpful

Let me start by saying that I am a guy that loves his action, horror, sci-fi, explosion, special affect, mindless rollercoaster ride, types of movies; and have always had the sexist, narrow minded, ignorant, views concerning "Romantic Chick Flicks". However, (as much as I hate to say it) 'THE CRYING GAME', might well be one of my all time favorite movies. This movie relies on simply an awesome story, and acting, that will take ones breath away (in more ways than one). I believe this movie should be required viewing for any acting class, or any student of acting looking to broaden their skills, outside the contemporary norms. I truly believe the only reason JAYE DAVIDSON (who I would say played one of the most convincing and moving roles ive ever seen)didn't win the OSCAR was due to the fact that he embarassed the judges who pick the winners to this yearly Hollywood farce; in that he a virtual unknown, could come out of no where, and put on a performance that shook almost every person that watched the movie. Its funny, the hard part about talking about this movie is found in not wanting to give the "SPOILER" to those that havent seen it (thus I will wrap this up). The Collector's Edition is a gem, for in it we the many fans (and you know who you are) get to see the alternate ending we really wanted (well at least the one I wanted haha). Yet, after some consideration, I was left to understand (sadly) that Neil Jordan got it right the first time. So if you're like me and you've seen the 'GAME' more than once, or was left with a feeling of disappointment at the ending of the movie, check the COLLECTOR'S EDITION just to see what could have been. And to those who haven't seen it, if you are looking for a movie that will challenge everything you've ever believed in regards to love, sexuality, and the inner beauty of what makes us who and what we are, or simply want to see some of the most memorable acting that has ever graced the silver screen, make it a point to rent or buy this movie ASAP.


KEWL FLICK   December 16, 1999
 7 out of 10 found this review helpful

I am in the process of watching this movie again (for like the tenth time!). I am starting to memorize lines from it (that's when u know you've seen a movie in excess!). What I enjoy about this movie is the brilliant story and the brilliant acting that accompanies the screenplay.

I was mesmorized by Forrest Whittaker's performance as "Jody". (Terrific, let me say that again, TERRIFIC job on the accent Forrest!). I began to wonder as I was watching him, why he wasn't nominated for an Oscar? Gee Whiz, what a farce! It must be in the Oscar Commitees nature.

The whole movie is riveting, and all set to a killer score. The song "The Crying Game" has some of the most romantic and heartwrenching lyrics I have ever heard.

By the way, what the heck has Jaye Davidson been doing since "Stargate"?


Huge Disappointment   January 29, 2003
 7 out of 24 found this review helpful

I rented this movie based on the rave reviews I had read and totally expected to enjoy it. It is now less than an hour after the movie ended and I still have not been able to shake the incredible depression I felt when it was over. There are those who claim the movie was about the power of love to conquer all but I simply didn't see that anywhere in this film. All I saw was two miserable, lonely people who had nothing in common attempting to form a bond that was doomed from the beginning. Dil's desperate neediness was heartbreaking to see. I felt she manipulated and took advantage of the kindness and good heart of Fergus at every turn. I was terribly disappointed with this film and cannot recommend it to anyone.