pt 3 – It's just my opinion and it is, ironically, a film that works best when it has not being talked up, when it sneaks up on you and whaps you in the side of the head… But, at the end of the day, it is a film that is only criticised by people who seem slighted (incredulously) by its refusal to explain everything (sci-fi for dummies). In other words the film is made with that old ethos of the greats like Kubrick and Coppola etc in their prime (incidentally, also not American directors – this is directed by a Mexican or Spaniard from memory) in that it isn't a film made to please everyone. It is a film designed to fly over some people's heads and be etched into others' hearts. It doesn't want greatness – it wants to BE great… and there is a difference. The Godfather did not win many Academy Awards comparatively, but you tell me, which is the best movie – The Godfather or American Beauty? The Godfather or Return of the King? Truly great movies will never instantly win over the Academy or critics b/c they are like trained monkeys or lab rats. I also wonder if those who do not like these kind of films really just don't like themselves (but don't know it) and the film cretaes an inner conflict that upsets them and they mistake this for a lack of enjoyment. I believe it is commonly referred to as denial. :) Anyway.....
It's just my opinion but this, along with films like Pan's Labyrinth, will come to be known as absolute classics – certainly cult films – of our generation. Children of Men is also an authentic drama/thriller/sci-fi/action/chase movie… and that's pretty choice. :)