BotSW is not the sort of movie that's going to hit my top 100, but it is a "triumph" (as the critics say). I can see why it's been a darling at film festivals -- it's a celebration of life through death and the process of living and connecting with people. The characters are phenomenally well drawn. So much so, that I felt like they were real and maybe even loved them in a way. That's quite a feat for a movie that I was ready to walk out on...

I didn't know much about BotSW going in -- I was looking forward to seeing it because Favorwire had done an article about "The Most Beautiful Movies Ever Made." They had placed BotSW along side such masterpieces as 2001 and Days of Heaven. Because of my high visual standards, the film immediately lost me. This wasn't like any of the other films on the list -- it was shot hand held; and although there was a certain beauty to its images, it certainly did not belong on the same list with Amelie. However, despite my resentment and disappointment, the film managed to win me over within 15 minutes. If it can win Mr. Grumpy Pants over, it can certainly win you over.

For reference: www.flavorwire.com/302889/what-are-the-most-beautiful-movies-ever-made?all=1