Yes! Finally, a good movie to talk about. Of course this movie was actually released in 2000. That's O.K. I'll take a good one when I can get it. In Before Night Falls, Javier Bardem gives a powerhouse performance in this true story of Reynaldo Arenas, a homosexual writer who overcame many obstacles in a politically turbulent Cuba circa the 1950's. The film actually spans many years of Arenas' life, and Barden soars in the lead.

Bardem earned a much talked about Oscar nomination for his gutsy portrayal of Arenas, and he's worthy of the nod. Although I have yet to see Geoffrey Rush's work in Quills or Ed Harris' turn in Pollock, I do think that Bardem's work in Before Night Falls is superior to that of Tom Hanks in Cast Away and Russell Crowe in Gladiator. Not to take anything away from these brilliant performers. It's just that this is a much deeper role and far riskier.

Johnny Depp shows up in two roles. One as a prison warden and the other as a transvestite inmate. He fares much better here than he did in Chocolat, although both characters appear briefly. That's fine however, because this is Bardem's show and he makes the most of it.

This is tough subject matter to say the least, and director Julian Schnabel seems up to the challenge. This isn't merely a film about homosexuals trying to survive in hostile and hypocritical situations, this is, at heart, the story of a man who wants to be himself and obtain his goals. Ultimately, he does, but not without paying a price.

Before Night Falls is an ambitious, unique film propelled by stellar acting. I wouldn't consider it one of the best films of 2000, but it did contain one of the best performances of the year. Bardem is an actor to watch for.