Reviews

Crowe isn't interested in Aames' money or good looks, rather he focuses on his slow mental decline (Sophia rejects him after an uncomfortable post-crash nightclub session) and David's slow realisation that there may be a conspiracy at work, created either by the Seven Dwarfs (shareholders in his company who want him out) or jealous best friend Brian, who covets Sophia. Have Brian and Julie cooked up a crazy plan to drive David mad and get the objects of their affection back?

Suitably for a film called Vanilla Sky, this is Crowe's most striking visual work, full of haunting imagery by Braveheart cinematographer John Toll (check out the creepy, deserted Time Square opening). Since Crowe started out as a writer for Rolling Stone, Vanilla Sky also happens to boast one of the best soundtracks in living memory; Paul McCartney, Peter Gabriel, REM, Sigur Ros...and that's just for starters.

Arguably Diaz has the toughest role as the heart-broken Julie Gianni, and if her screen time wasn't so limited, she might just have stolen the movie out from under Cruise's feet. Happily TC's performance is one of his best, as he steers Aames from smugness to regret to dark humour and finally enlightenment.

There's no denying that the reveal at the end of Vanilla Sky will make some viewers feel cheated just as much as others will be moved, but if approached with an open mind then all will make sense. It's also far from a gimmicky 'twist' movie, as repeat viewings allow you to find something new each time, whether in the music, production design or the great performances.

Crowe and his cast went on to complete any number of uninspired projects - Last of the Samurai, The Sweetest Thing, Sahara, Elizabethtown - so Vanilla Sky is a chance to see everyone absolutely at the top of their game. Penelope Cruz hasn't been nearly as good in an American film before or since. If you get lost in David's story...just contact tech support.

DVD Special Features:

Cameron Crowe & Nancy Wilson Commentary

Featurette: Hitting it Hard

Featurette: Prelude to a Dream

Interview with Paul McCartney

Music Video 'Afrika Shox'

Unseen Teaser Trailer

International Theatrical Trailer

Photo Gallery

Deleted Scenes