siderite I am not one for romance, but this film made me search for the first part. Unfortunately, I think I have to be Australian to find it. Anyway, it has the feel of a book movie, one of those rare films with unique and real characters and real situations.The basic story is of a "forbidden love" between a boy and a girl from different boarding schools "run by former Gestapo officers" as the lead describes their schools. Basically something like frustrated nuns with no Christian moral are running the schools, forbidding any real display or opportunity for affection.It is a very cute movie, with a young Nicole Kidman in a secondary role. If you like films with smart kids that everyone picks upon finding true love (against adversity) you'll love this one.

Tamarahvictor I saw this movie today for the very first time and it was amazing. I've never seen a movie so well put together, even young adults as myself can relate or even fantasize with the plot itself. the character of Danny is every mysterious person who is opened to a whole new world by this young African girl. I really like this movie and i wish they made more movies like this now in days. I hope they remake this movie with a modern twist but still with the old charm. I really enjoyed this movie and it seems like a movie that i would watch in English class. I loved it and am hoping to share it among friends.it was great. My cousin also watched it with me and was like, "wow i have a thing for that Danny character!"

julianxbishop Intelligently written piece that combines sub-genres of Coming of Age and inter-racial films.The plot is fairly straightforward and the message of the film is not deep. Nevertheless, it is an original film which is simply and cheaply made.The first strength of the film lies in the exquisite performances from great cast of the then unknown actors, 3 of whom have gone on to great performances in many other films (Taylor, Newton and Kidman).Secondly (assuming you are over 14 years old), the audience will have a strong feeling of resonation with the subject matter (growing up, alienation the school "norm", being allowed to behave differently etc). The fact that the film is by a British director about an Australian boarding school probably means that the film has a wider appeal to all anglo-saxon nations.Finally, the humour is understated but engaging.I loved this film on release. It has not lost any of its charm since, though you are slightly distracted by seeing well-known actors in their youth.

lovedaisy21 I liked this movie a lot. I do not think that it is just for teens. The acting is very good. Noah Taylor does a very good job in this movie. He is a very good under rated actor. Thandie Newton is also very good in her role. Nicole Kidman, Naomi Watts are good also.