The complicated interactions involving class and culture that ensue between all these characters remain fascinating even when they seem overly schematic.

Though Binoche does very solid work, she can't sell the idea of her and Law as a couple; the chemistry isn't there. Not much else rings true in Minghella's screenplay, which is full of coincidences and speeches about race and class.

The pitch meeting must have been frightening: "Caché for fans of Chocolat."

While this film may not impact the viewer on the same levels Minghella’s other work might have, audiences will walk away affected by a poem put to film and feel contented by the truths in the director’s symbolism.