Tom Ford's directorial debut is a rare achievement -- he's created a gorgeous, beautifully acted film that depicts a man's coming to terms with grief for his dead lover and finding a reason to live again. Colin Firth is remarkable, subtle, passionate, and whereas Julianne Moore -- who is equally skilled and beautiful -- is really a supporting role, not lead actress, as advertised, the other supporting actors are also wonderful. The pacing may seem slow to the current audience numbed into unconsciousness by CGI, but for adults who love a story well told and acted, this film is like water in a desert.