1. SusanS.

   10

   This is one of the best films I saw in 2009. I'm sorry it got so little reception and that most of the critics did not seem to know how to handle it. Anyone who has worked, lived with or been close to someone with schizophrenia will probably be deeply moved by this movie. This is not a film of easy answers. But it's subject matter is not easy. It's not A Beautiful Mind or Shine, where the characters are suddenly transformed by the power of music or math or whatever. It deals with the reality of schizophrenia and homelessness, which are both terrifying, dizzying, and messy issues that cannot be solved with one helping hand and musical instrument. The acting, writing, and directing are amazing, as is the cinematography (the first sequence on skid row and an "internal" light show are particularly notable). I went into this film unsure about it, as the previews depicted it as one of those feel good inspirational stories, but was totally blown away. To think that films like Up in the Air and Avatar are stealing all the acclaim for 2009 and this film is getting left in the dust is heartbreaking. It's truly a masterpiece.… Expand

   • Helpful? 2 of 3 users said Yes.
2. LoisM.

   8

   Don't pay attention to those who say this is boring or too sad; they are the same people who don't like any film unless someone is getting shot or raped. This is a great slice of real life film telling a real story; it features great acting by Downey, Foxx and Keener and wonderful cinematography.… Expand

   • Helpful? 0 of 0 users said Yes.
3. grandpajoe6191

   6

   The story might not know where the hell its going, but "The Soloist" at least succeeds in showing powerful performances of Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr.… Expand

   • Helpful? 5 of 5 users said Yes.
4. jp992751

   4

   If not for the actors selling there roles The Soloist would have been a complete flop. Other than Foxx and Downey Jr. The Soloist has nothing going for it. The extremely unfocused film leaves its viewers wondering what the point of it was (Craziness has no cure? Homelessness is a personal choice? Homelessness is a problem everyone needs to be involved in? Classical music is under appreciated in society?)? The Soloist is slow and never really packs any sort of punch or sentimental moment and spends to much time building up a storyline with no real clear cut point, which is essential in a movie or better said character study such as this.… Expand

   • Helpful? 2 of 3 users said Yes.

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