If that is really Carine (could it be?), thank you for your thoughtful and insghtful comments. I saw the movie this weekend, and it was so full of power and wonder. Peter Travers of Rolling Stone captured my feelings about the movie perfectly when he said "this beautiful, wrenching film will take a piece out of you." <link>

I enjoyed and appreciated the movie much more than the book eventhough I realize Penn created a more allegorical version of the story. Like some others I saw the movie with, I've had trouble getting Chris and this movie out of my head. It was truly engrossing, and Emile Hirsch should win awards for his amazing performance.

If you're searching for more information about the movie and Sean Penn's vision, check out Penn's Sept. 21 appearance on the Charlie Rose show at www.charlierose.com.

Thanks, Carine, for your input, and everyone else, go see this film.