Notebook Reviews: MAGNOLIA

Paul Thomas Anderson – 1999

Writer-director Paul Thomas Anderson‘s Magnolia is a modern movie masterpiece. This is a unique and interesting piece of cinema which delivers in every way. It’s long – but the story unfolds in such a way that you’re drawn into it and captivated by where it will go. This is epic filmmaking with an emotional core.

Magnolia‘s ensemble cast is excellent – Tom Cruise, William H. Macy, John C. Reilly, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jason Robards and Julianne Moore – and they all excel. However, Cruise is the standout and he should have won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar that year. It’s the performance of his career. 

What else can be said about Magnolia – great story, great cast, great soundtrack, great movie.