The Shipping News — A simple setting with an interesting tale — 8*/10

• Scenario: With a very humble setting this story captures our attention, but only once you get passed the shock of the pathetic initial situation. It is very entertaining with many interesting ideas and plot elements. It is much better than the synopsis can lead us to believe.
• Dialogs: Nice and realistic.
• Characters: Well built and with nice depth, except for the mother and her boyfriends.
• Actors: Great acting. Cast members include Kevin Spacey, Julianne Moore, Judi Dench, Cate Blanchett, Pete Postlethwaite and Rhys Ifans.
• Photography: Beautiful if simple.
• Sound: Nice music and score.
• Special effects: None.
• Synopsis & information: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120824/
• Who is it for? Those wanting a nice story with little or no laughter and don't mind such humble settings or the lack of action.