Ron Howard is a master filmmaker (yep, I said it). While a handful may scoff at my assertion, I could care less. Howard makes classic American films that audiences love and want. And what’s so wrong with that? Apparently to critics though, there is. But whether it’s Robert Altman, Robert Redford, Spike Lee, or whoever comprises the usual wank list, Howard outshines them all in originality and class. He’s not elitist, he’s not pretentious, and most of all, he’s not politically correct. He’s a true artist! Which of those four things galls critics most, and they shun him for, is up to you. Yet even the most jaded have embraced A BEAUTIFUL MIND, showing that they’re not totally crazy. And there’s much to admire, frankly. The film is highly engaging and Russell Crowe is just magnificent, virtually guaranteeing another OSCAR win. (Unfortunately, he lost to Denzel Washington, which is an absolute crime!) Howard was deservedly nominated too for Best Director, although I didn’t think he’d win. Much like Spielberg, I thought that Ron would have to wait some time before the Academy would give him his due. Thank goodness they finally got a clue.

      Anyway, I personally can’t rave about this film enough. A BEAUTIFUL MIND is the best movie of 2001. I still believe that Akiva Goldsman is a less than adequate writer, but he did fine here. :-)