Rating: 
Summary: IF YOU LIKE PLOT TWISTS YOU WILL LIKE THIS MOVIE.
Review: "Vanilla Sky" is a remake of the Spanish film "Abre Los Ojos (Open Your Eyes)", and if you have seen the original film, you know that "Vanilla Sky" was made almost in the same way, but there a few key differences. The camera angles, the plot and most of scenes are almost the same in both movies, but "Vanilla Sky" uses a different music, this movie has a rock-oriented music score. Also, the character played by Cameron Diaz is an improvement over the original character, because Cameron adds more depth with her performance. Of course, since "Vanilla Sky" is a Hollywood movie, the visual effects and the budget are bigger this time."Vanilla Sky" offers a lot of plot twists, so the first screening might be mind-blowing to some viewers, if you like simple plots perhaps "Vanilla Sky" is not your movie. But if you like to be tricked with the characters and the plot, this film is for you. "Vanilla Sky" plays with the time, the movie goes back and forth between past and present, and sometimes you don't know if some events really happened or if the main character is just having a nightmare. The cast in "Vanilla Sky" is very interesting: Tom Cruise is David, the main character, and Cruise gave one of his most inspired performances in recent years. Cameron Diaz is outstanding as Julie, she improved the character from "Open Your Eyes". Penelope Cruz plays exactly the same role, yes, the same role in both movies, one might think that she would improve her performance this time, but nop, she reprises her role step by step. Jason Lee plays Brian, the best friend of David, and he does a good job here, he adds sympathy and charm to his character. Kurt Russell plays McCabe, the psychiatrist that tries to solve the puzzle. "Vanilla Sky" is an effective thriller, packed with plot twists and good music, if you like this movie, I strongly recommend you to see the original film "Abre Los Ojos (Open Your Eyes)", you might find that both films share similarities, but they are different movie experiences.
Rating: 
Summary: Cruise/Crowe ego-fest ruins what was a good movie
Review: "Vanilla Sky" is, in short, a complete mess. Tom Cruise and Cameron Crowe set out to remake Spanish director's Alejandro Amenábar 1997 masterpiece "Abre Los Ojos." I guess I made the mistake of seeing the original first and saw where 'Sky' consistently failed to measure up by either (a) losing the plot, or (b) getting interrupted by one of Crowe's vanity vignettes. Like his restaging of "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan" album cover. No doubt that one-time rock journalist Crowe always wanted to sneak that in there. But Amenábar didn't need it, nor did he need a whole load of other flourishes that Crowe peppers in here, the empty Times Square shot being the most outlandish (and useless). The only actors that distinguish themselves here are Cameron Diaz (convincing as a psychotic ex-girlfriend) and Jason Lee (better than Cruise in all their joint scenes). Penelope Cruz-Cruise seems a bit disinterested in the whole thing. Who's to blame her? 2nd time she's done the role, once in Spanish, once in English. I should point out that I love all of Cameron Crowe's original work, most notably the underrated 'Singles.' I'm sure he'll get back on track with his next film.
Rating:
Summary: An amazing film that could have been stellar
Review: I have watched Vanilla Sky three times now, and every time it has left me powerfully affected. It deals with many topics that interest me, particularly the study of dreams vs. reality, and the nature of relationships, and love. There is much that is very good about it, however it contains one major flaw that prevents it from being truly great.
The acting, is overall top notch. Jason Lee turns in yet again another stellar supporting role; he radiates charisma in this performance, and fits the role given perfectly. Cameron Diaz is a fine choice for Julianna, she brings an almost maniacal sense of urgency to her character that was both disturbing and complusively watchable; she simply looks amazing on film. Tom Cruise performs more than adaquetly as well, and perhaps the greatest kudos must be given to Penelope Cruz, who simply lights up the screen here. Her charisma is unmistakable, and she infuses this film with life and vibrancy. This is a film with many powerful images, be it the gorgeous vanilla skies that soar over New York within the dream, or the (SPOILER) unforgettable image of Cruise's David Aames waving farewell to his disfigured reflection in the mirror. It entices in the first viewing, draws you in irresistably, and apon further viewings still moves with great pacing, and many subtle clues and hints can be found that help the viewer understand the nature of David Aame's reality. My only real complaint is that Cameron Crowe for some inexplicable reason (though it certainly must have been because of confused test audiencies, those who this film is not intended for anyway) chose to come out at the end of the film and blatantly reveal all of the films secrets and twists; he talks to the viewer as if we were 5 years old and need him to hold our hand. This film could have been very similar in nature to, and even rivaled Lynch's masterpiece Mulholland Drive had Crowe not chosen to do so, and it is very disappointing that he did in fact choose to do so. But this aside, the film is very compelling and often powerful. I still love the questions it raises concerning love (if his love with Sofia wasnt "real", than does it still have meaning?), and the image of "I will find you in another life, when we are both cats" that so powerfully emphasizes the power that love can have, and the joy and awe surrounding that human emotion. For a similar image look in the closing chapters of the novel The Amber Spyglass by Philip Pullman. But i digress. This film is solid, even coming from hollywood, and with big name stars attached. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who is willing to be challenged slightly by the film they watch, and those who love to be moved.
Highly Recommended
Rating:
Summary: Vanilla Sky: A Visually Gorgeous but Pointless Film
Review: Tom Cruise is a superbly gifted actor. He deserved the Academy Award for his performance in "Jerry Maguire." The malicious slur that Cruise is nothing more than a pretty boy probably had something do with his not receiving this honor. Unfortunately, our beloved Tom has recently squandered his enormous talent on making movies to satisfy the Liberal pseudo intellectuals. The banal "Eyes Wide Shut" and the so-called thought provoking "Magnolia" were both a complete waste of time. "Vanilla Sky" is another film on Tom Cruise's existential trip to nowhere. "Vanilla Sky" is a beautiful film. New York City was never more lovely to look at. Alas, Director Cameron Crowe did what he could with a pointless and tedious story line. The music track is interesting but not memorable. The acting of Penelope Cruz and Cameron Diaz demands little from either actress. Jason Lee, however, is fantastic as the close friend of the protagonist. "Vanilla Sky" became increasingly boring whenever he was not in a scene. It wasn't Kurt Russell's fault that the audience had already fallen asleep by the time he appeared on the screen. What is the movie about? The gods of the universe couldn't answer that question. Tom Cruise portrays a spoiled and self absorbed thirty something brat who seemingly cannot distinguish between reality and fantasy. Is he alive, or is he dead? Does his life have any meaning? Is good sex sufficient to make it all worth while? I'm normally hostile towards Marxist ideology, but Cruise's David Aames character is a strong argument for not allowing the sons of the wealthy to inherit the wealth of their parents. Anyone desiring to save their sanity should consider avoiding "Vanilla Sky" at all costs. One should recommend this movie only to their worst enemies. There are numerous Tom Cruise films that you must see at least once during your lifetime, but "Vanilla Sky" isn't one of them.
Rating: 
Summary: living the dream???
Review: "We're now on pause."
'Vanilla Sky' is one of my favorite movies of all time, for that reason I have discussed it with a number of people. It is true that you will either cherish, despise, or totally not get this film.
The film is complex both in content and presentation, thus many simply won't get it.
People dislike 'Vanilla Sky' because, the original, 'Abre los Ojos,' is more artsy and less glamorous...and it is for that reason, I gather, that many people prefer the original film and strongly denounce 'Vanilla Sky.' 'Vanilla Sky' is, in my opinion, more graceful and not quite as raw as Amenabar's original. Crowe made a great story and message digestible for American's, but in the process brought forth such a jarring and real message about so many aspects of life that I think people either don't want to or can't wrap their heads around it.
This is no bastardization. It is a cultural re-doing of a solid film; with excellent performances and great work by so many others behind the scenes, that ultimately comes off better than the original. I love this movie because it is a truthful depiction of a man who torments himself...who chooses to bring crap on to himself...and fate cuts him no slack because he has been blessed in many earthly ways, very realistic and unlike your typical Hollywood junk (but of course it is not originally conceived in Hollywood). So, he throws his blessings away on many an occasion by making foolishly impulsive decisions and generally refusing to take charge of his life. On other occasions the viewer cringes as he unfruitfully grasps for what he tossed out before.
The blunt realization is that all the little moments in life matter so very-very much. That is life and 'Vanilla Sky' is a great allegory for some of the most important lessons: the sweet is never as sweet without the sour (hard work); there are no short cuts, no quick fixes; money can not repair the most important problems we are capable of bringing upon ourselves; and particularly if you are even slightly self-aware you must eventually chose to either: wake up (open your eyes) take control of your destiny and live a real life; or you will be engaging in a grand delusion, a dream. "Consequences...It's the little things...The little things...there's nothing bigger. Is there?"
Alas, all is not lost, every passing minute is another chance to turn it all around.
Rating: 
Summary: hated it
Review: The movie is a pitiful mess. It's laughable to think people would give it 5 stars. The movie starts out promisingly, then veers toward an extended Twilight Zone, but it's not as well-done as a Twilight Zone episode. The soundtrack is awful, with many of the songs having no connection with the action on the scene. For example, Tom Cruise smothers and apparently kills one of his lovers (we're not sure which one, which says a lot about the movie), to the tune of Beach Boys' 'Good Vibrations'. During the film we're left wondering if what we're seeing is a dream or real. I had to force myself to finish this one, but it never got better. About the most interesting thing in the film was a glimpse of Penelope Cruz' breasts.
Rating:
Summary: so far the best remake I've seen
Review: People's blaming cameron crowe do nothing else to the story but exactly what was in the original and so it destroy the originity of the orginal... First of all, this is a remake, so that would make a perfect sense why their story are the same.., the second thing about destroying originity, I rather think the saturation of this version is positively working on me. This version is more colorful than the original in a working way. I watched it so many times by now and still I know some time later I'll rewatch it again, its more like fairy tale story in a twisted way, where people yell for a second chance on certain things.
Rating:
Summary: Funniest movie of the year
Review: If you enjoy seeing Tom Cruise get his face smashed in, this is the movie for you. Additionally, if you like movies that are funny by accident, this is the movie for you. If you like movies that can be considered "good" or "watchable" or "not torture," this is not for you.
Rating:
Summary: Open your eyes
Review: C'mon people...You'll either love it or hate it. There is no in-between with this movie. And if you want to compare it to Abre Los Ojos, go right ahead. Just remember they are different movies, made at different times so you need to respect that. For those of you who didn't "get it," either watch it again, or go back to watching the Day after Tomorrow.
Rating:
Summary: One of the best movies ever
Review: The negative reviews seem to be from those who probably exceeded their attention span or those who watch with an overly critical eye. The movie is a series of flashbacks. The plot is sophisticated and reconcilable (unlike Mullholland Drive) which is perhaps the main complaint of how everything is explained in the end. So it's a remake and I haven't seen the original but this movie has a remarkably fitting soundtrack. The songs are actually a part of the movie and help create the different states of mind one will experience if you allow yourself to be taken for the ride the movie will give. This is the true value of this movie. It will show you a state of mind perhaps very foreign to you or very familiar as was my case. Not just entertainment an experience. How many movies can offer that? My only real complaint is there is no way for me to see it again for the first time.
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