I expected some resentment initially among readers, figuring that any negativity toward A.I. would be met with disdain. But as time passes and you gain perspective, the obvious split on this film was more and more apparent. People either seem to love it or hate it (whereas critics were a different story). The first hour is really fantastic and exemplary of classic sci-fi. But even at it’s best, I remember thinking that Spielberg must’ve inherited Kubrick’s pace too. Meaning, it was slower than hell, but still good. For me though, the movie loses its luster halfway through. The direction they take isn’t bad (it was inevitable), but the approach is weak and simply not as engaging. And when A.I. should’ve concluded numerous times, it keeps going and going, as if stretching it out would bring about the solid conclusion they were clearly without. As you’ll see, not a good gamble. While some will praise the Deus Ex Machina ending as genius, I considered it poor. The concept is still workable, just not here. It’s too far out of nowhere to be credible. Not surprisingly, major critical praise departed vastly from moviegoers with adulations in the multitude. But few of these critics will trash Spielberg (when he’s directing), especially nowadays. They have something to lose probably, while I’m just some schmoe with a web page. I guess I’m fortunate in that respect, in that I’m a nobody. :-)

      Wrapping up, Haley Joel Osment and Jude Law are both excellent. Despite my overall disappointment with A.I., I think that both should be remembered around OSCAR time. To have them nominated in lead and supporting categories will make A.I. worth every penny.