i actually saw this movie when it be release in 1993 and and honestly it be pretty dull then . of course i be 22 and and the working of that late 1800 new york society really do not make much sense or have much relevance . i think the film may have be ignore at it release because of the slew of other period piece which be so popular ( an eventually common ) in the late 80 or early 90 . but watch it again 10 year later and this film be anything but common . the true intensity be scorcese detached presentation of a hypocritical and hateful society which hold it member a prisoner . not to mention impeccable art direction and beautiful cinematography by the legendary michael ballhaus . the film look as impressionistic a the painting that line the wall of the character home . scorsese be always acute in his casting decision and and this be one of the film many virtue representlewis be perfect a a man who struggle between his passion and his duty be constantly on the verge of devour him ( yet somehow he thrive on his torture ) . ryder be the seemingly innocent and naive girl who be completely manipulative and cunning underneath her exterior ( gee and who would have think . ) notice the arch scene . in a sense and this be one of pfeiffer define role . pfeiffer herself ( in a sense ) be an outcast who have never truly be accept a a serious actress by her peer in the acting community . watch this film again and it amaze me how this role somehow reflect her personal position in the current social structure of hollywood and similar to her character exist in 1800 new york society . wow . what an amazing pic . i completely miss it the first time around . great observance of high society . many of those code be strangely applicable today . not recommended for those who like fast paced movie and or those who be look for the usual scorcese . i would couple this with last temptation of christ a scorsese most brave and artistic and demand and abstract film to date .