Million Dollar Baby
It's now been almost two weeks since I actually saw this film. I've been pretty busy lately, sure, but really I just didn't feel like reviewing it. Many of you may have already formed your own opinions about it; it's been out for a while, and even if you haven't seen it, all of the controversy might have left an impression. For my own part, I'm ambivalent. On the one hand, from a technical standpoint, it's a brilliant film. The acting, directing, and score were all very well done, nearly perfect. (All three of the stars I gave it are solely on the merit of these technical points.) But on the other hand, the actual story is so tragic that it's over the top. And now that I've had several important plot holes pointed out to me, the writing seems even clumsier. I don't feel the same outrage that many people do, but I am still bothered by how the film ends. I don't know if I'll ever completely make up my mind. So, to end with a corny one-liner, I guess you could say that Million Dollar Baby was a split decision.
Viewed: 1/29/2005 | Released: 12/14/2004 | Score: B