Happy Accidents is an apt name for this film for several reasons. Although the nature of the serendipity that takes place in the film might be a bit inaccurate by definition, I'd have to say that the fact that I picked it off the video store shelf (based solely on the fact that it starred Vincent D'Onofrio and Marisa Tomei) is one of the most fortuitous choices I've ever made. What a fantastic film. Easily the second most fascinating and brilliantly written examination of love relationships I've seen in years. Bested only by Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Brad Anderson's writing and directing is as compelling and fresh as anything you're going to find in any recent film independent or otherwise.

I'm only going to describe this film in the most vague of terms, because I don't want to spoil any of the revelations it holds in store. Besides if I tried to outline the story it might end up sounding hokey and implausible. True, it's fair to say that it's extremely far-fetched, it's execution is so amazingly perfect that you'll get behind it all the way, and will be absolutely glued to it. Not only because of it's story, but because of the truly astounding performances of the two leads. Anderson presents two equally plausible explanations for D'Onofrio and Tomei's situation that even after the film is over you won't be 100 per cent convinced one way or the other.

I will say that the film bears similarity to K-Pax, but everything about it is superior to the Spacey/Briidges vehicle. Happy Accidents is full of terrific supporting performances from Sean Gullette (Pi) and a terrific turn by Holland Taylor as a shrink who may or may not be what she appears. And a fun cameo by Anthony Michael Hall. D'Onofrio is at his very best as Sam, the innocent and mysterious love interest and Tomei has never been better as the woman who he has come to love. Anderson leaves it up to the audience to decide who is saving who, and his film is drawn with beautifully nuanced layers of subtext and foreshadowing that it really makes you wonder why this film has managed to slip past without being recognized for it's brilliance.

Happy Accidents is a perfect date flick, excellent for girls night out, and ideal for anyone who claims to be a fan of movies. Something for everybody, check that - a lot for everybody.