
Better than it should be
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.
Historical fiction meets romance novel, but it comes together nicely. Nicole Kidman (back when she was still pretty) and Tom Cruise (not playing Tom Cruise, for once) both turn in solid performances as a fiery upper-class Irish girl and the earnest peasant who takes her under his wing. Extremely family-friendly; not a thing in it I'd hesitate to let a child see.
Ron "Opie" Howard's usual attention to detail is apparent throughout, and the mossy Irish countryside, gritty Boston slums, and sweeping western vistas are as much characters in the story as any of the actors. A good old-fashioned American epic that makes you care about the characters, and feel good in the end. No surprises, but two-and-a-half hours sweeps by.
Incidentally, it has one of the best insults ever caught on film: "...you ugly little fraction of a man!", hurled by Kidman (with just the right amount of haughty defiance) at Clint Howard (who always seems to find a part in big brother's films.)
Review ID: 10000000003147548

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