US (1999): Drama
In adapting his own novel The Cider House Rules for the screen, John Irving sacrificed at least some of the depth and detail that made his humanitarian themes resonate, while the film -- directed with Scandinavian sobriety by Lasse Hallström --i s often vague about the complex issues (abortion, incest, responsibility) that lie at its core. Allowing for this ambiguity (which is arguably intentional), the film retains much of what made Irving's novel so admired, and it's blessed with a generous, forgiving spirit toward the mistakes, foibles, and desires of its many engaging characters.
Central to the story (set during World War II) is Homer (Tobey Maguire), a young man raised in a Maine orphanage, where the ether-sniffing Dr. Larch (Michael Caine) rules with benevolent grace while performing safe but illegal abortions. To expand his horizons, Homer follows a young couple (Charlize Theron, Paul Rudd) to do fieldwork on an apple farm, where his innocent eyes are opened to the good and evil of the world -- and to the realization that not all rules are steadfast in all situations. By the time Homer returns to the orphanage, The Cider House Rules is memorable more for its many charming and insightful moments than for any lasting dramatic impact. Is Homer fated to come full circle in his kindhearted journey? It's left to the viewer to decide. (Amazon.com)
7 nominations, 2 Awards
· Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role 1999: Michael Caine
· Best Achievement in Writing (Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published) 1999: John Irving
· Best Picture of the Year 1999: Richard N. Gladstein - Producer (FilmColony, Miramax)
· Achievement in Directing 1999: Lasse Hallström
· Achievement in Art Direction 1999: David Gropman - Art Direction, Beth Rubino - Set Decoration
· Achievement in Film Editing 1999: Lisa Zeno Churgin
· Achievement in Music (Original Musical or Comedy Score) 1999: Rachel Portman