El Celo (2000)

The message is clear

A wonderful and complex tale full of insights on the impact of child abuse. Brilliant acting from the four main players. The message at the end clear and rang true. Name your tormentor. September 6, 2008

"To Save Oneself By Saving Innocence"

Synopsis: The '00 film 'Presence of Mind' is a slow but often haunting tale of the supernatural about an attractive but repressed young woman (Sadie Frost) who takes a position as governess over two children in a rambling mansion haunted by the previous custodian and governess. It's a story of mysterious pasts and untold secrets both on the part of the new governess and the children who are continual found playing near the areas where the two previous tenant died.

In an attempt to save the two children she attempts to persuade them to admit they're in communication with these two hostile spirits in the hope that consciously acknowledging their presence will set them free. Will her strategy be successful or will it only make the situation worse?

Critique: The story line of 'Presence of Mind' is a clever attempt at dealing with two aspects of haunting, the existence of ghosts and the more personal realm of inner demons within that play an integral role in shaping who we are and how we perceive the outer world. The film also delivers a strong, very Catholic subplot of "redemption through suffering" which gives the plot added substance and meaning. The soundtrack works beautifully with the visuals and theme, it's simple, flowing and intensely melancholy.

Unfortunately I found the ending to be unnecessarily obscure leaving too many aspects of this complex tale unexplored. Also, if you're primarily considering to view this film because you're a Harvey Keitel fan be forewarned, he's only on screen for about four minutes or less.

My Rating: Overall satisfying but could have been better; -3 1/2 Stars-.
August 16, 2008

Yes! Good!

I saw this is a very unpopular movie..as I bought it in the $5 bin at the electronics store. I watched it and saw it was actually pretty good. I can see why a lot of people don't like it, because it can be very confusing and misleading at times, but I thought it is very suspensful and fun. :) September 13, 2004

Please do NOT waste your time!

I bought it. I watched it. I threw it in the trash. July 10, 2004

Don't Waste Your Money

I bought this movie (cheap) because I like Keitel and period movies, but I was disappointed. The scenery was pretty, but the movie was not enjoyable. The music was the only thing that gave the film any feeling of suspense. I will not watch it again. May 31, 2004

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