Lasse Hallstrom has directed John Irving's screenplay of his own novel, "The Cider House Rules". Michael Caine delivers one of his best performances as a physician who acts as surrogate father to children in an orphanage in the years before and during World War II. Tobey McGuire is the key character who learns medicine informally under Caine's instruction. On becoming an adult he goes out into the world. The characters are interesting and sympathetic. The feel for the period is right on target. Even though some of the plot turns may be predictable, the scene by scene unfolding of the story is satisfying and touching. Delroy Lindo, Kathy Baker, and Charlize Theron should also be singled out as well-cast in their roles. Eryka Badu (the singer)is especially fine as the daughter of the boss of the itinerant workers (Lindo). This one deserves to be noted at award time.
Review of The Cider House Rules
