City of Angels (1998)

The critic finds it a lyrical, thoughtfully crafted romance, though its ending becomes excessively sentimental. He especially praises Nicolas Cage’s nuanced performance and the film’s graceful visual style.

Turan finds the film a fascinating but conflicted hybrid, whose appeal depends on viewers’ willingness to embrace its romantic fantasy. He praises the leads’ performances and the film’s otherworldly visual style, while faulting its schematic second half.

The page could not be read, so the critic’s verdict is unavailable. No specific praise or complaint can be verified from the accessible text.

Berry finds the Hollywood remake largely avoids becoming overly sentimental. She praises its soundtrack and describes the film as winning and moving.

The review appears mixed but appreciative of the film’s craft. It singles out the elegant direction and luscious camerawork, while its opening questions the premise of remaking Wings of Desire.

The review finds the romance affecting but weighed down by melodrama and philosophical digressions. It praises the lead performances and Silberling’s fresh eye, while noting the story’s slow stretches.

The critic finds the film enchanting at first but ultimately hollow and disappointing, especially compared with its source. They praise its beautiful cinematography and Meg Ryan’s performance, while faulting its loss of the original’s sophistication.

Phipps finds the film an unsuccessful, overly conventional romance that fails to make its story engaging. He singles out Dennis Franz’s lively scenes and the occasional striking image as bright spots.

The critic strongly dislikes the film, calling it a schmaltzy and overpolished remake. They single out Meg Ryan’s decency as a redeeming quality.