the audience applauded

Sorry, this movie sucks

Good movie but grossly overrated

I really wanted to like this movie. I feel terribly cynical trashing it, and that's why I'm giving it a middling 5. Actually, I'm giving it a 5 because there were some superb performances.

First, let me say that this film is not for everyone. If you don't have an appreciation for the tragedy often present in real human relationships and often chronicled by Russian authors you may not enjoy this movie to the fullest. On the other hand, if you have some familiarity with Russian literature you may be pleasantly surprised. The cast performed wonderfully.

Old school techniques in lighting and the use of close-ups were the perfect complement to the stunning setting where the film was shot. The ensemble is perfectly cast; the women shine in this film but the male roles were also expertly played by the surprising Corey Stoll and Billy Howle. My only critique is that the end does feel a bit rushed...it moves toward its inevitable conclusion, but in a way that could have been fleshed out a bit more. Excellent adaptation overall.

'The Seagull' is an entertaining adaptation of the Chekhov classic. Though the parts are greater than the sum, in this case, it's more than enough to recommend this as best enjoyed as a comedy ensemble piece about misplaced love and the misunderstandings that follow. Honestly, I went to see this for my favorite actress, Saoirse Ronan. And she soars in this! She plays a pivotal role, Nina Zarechnaya, who, as you will see when you watch this, is the living metaphor behind the titular meaning. Soarse is photographed as effervescent and luminous; and is stunning. Who wouldn't believe any man of any age wouldn't fall for her! I did, too! Saoirse perfectly shows Nina's naive determination to seduce Trigorin in exchange for similar fame as he has. The price of losing the young man who loves her, Konstantin, doesn't sway her ambitions. The film's coda allows Saoirse to show the end result of her ruthless determination to gain fame at any cost; and the results will break your heart as it did mine. Saoirse is absolutely brilliant here; as she transitions to mature adult roles. Overall, all of the characters endure their own love missteps and confusion, to both humorous and bittersweet results. Annette Bening is terrific as the aging actress, Irina, as is forever melancholy and bitter Masha, played by Elizabeth Moss, who crackles and has some great lines she vigorously chews thru! A great cast where the women stand out in all their parts and the men dutifully acquiesce.

SPOILER: The Seagull. Heart wrenching, hilarious, appalling, and the only one who gets out alive is the seagull, shot early on. So much ambition, so little success. From the estate staff, cooks, & caretaker to renowned stage and literary stars, breathtaking in life's limitations.