While watching this film, I glanced at comments previously made on this site. Although few in number, they had a wider range than for most films. I haven't read the book, but can understand how it contained information and interesting studies of relationships between characters in greater detail than the time available would allow in the movie. And there are always variances in opinions, but usually not this great. For example, based upon its ratings, I may be one of the few people in the country who has seen CSI very seldom, and I wasn't familiar with Mariska Hargitay. However, I may start ensuring I view it in the future. Her performance here was outstanding, and she is a completely attractive presence. I had never heard of Alison Pill, either, and her performance was equally well-done. (In looking-up her profile here, she is a real cutie - not entirely hidden in the film, but unavoidably dimmed by the nature of her character.
As with very good movies like this one, the supporting characters and cast performances were excellent, as was, of course, the story. The Amish represent a very culture to view, and having lived for many years in an area with Amish, I feel their society was represented fairly, respectfully and accurately. As others have mentioned, the plot does keep one guessing and yet each aspect is believable. In so many films where the story has a lot of twists and turns, either the story has contrivances needed to create them, and they sometimes detract, rather than enhance, the overall presentation. Neither was the case here. Not only an outstanding film, but one you look forward to seeing again, or perhaps buying a copy.
As with very good movies like this one, the supporting characters and cast performances were excellent, as was, of course, the story. The Amish represent a very culture to view, and having lived for many years in an area with Amish, I feel their society was represented fairly, respectfully and accurately. As others have mentioned, the plot does keep one guessing and yet each aspect is believable. In so many films where the story has a lot of twists and turns, either the story has contrivances needed to create them, and they sometimes detract, rather than enhance, the overall presentation. Neither was the case here. Not only an outstanding film, but one you look forward to seeing again, or perhaps buying a copy.