(rated R, 113 mins.)
A clairvoyant beautiful socialite (Cate Blanchett) stars as the good-natured Annie Wilson, a recently widowed mother of three young boys who must bear the burden of “the gift” of psychic vision. The towns’ superstitions are entwined in the fabric of everyday life thus she supports her boys by giving readings to a disturbed car mechanic (Giovanni Ribisi), and to an abused housewife (Oscar nominated Hillary Swank) whose bullying husband (Keanu Reeves) thinks Annie does devil’s work. But, Annie’s biggest feat lies not in her steady local clientele, but in helping the authorities with a vision of the sexually promiscuous missing Jessica (Katie Holmes). Written by Academy Award winner Billy Bob Thornton (“Sling Blade” similar in theme) this haunting and psychological thriller is ultimately a profound celebration of the human spirit through these complex and troubled characters who are all incredibly cast and to whom Blanchett is merely an anchor.
