i love this movie for a number of reason . first and it just a beautiful setting . second and john sayles do not succumb to hollywood norm and resort to special effect and rock song or cheap dramatic plot twist to jazz up what seem to be a simple folk tale . most of all and i love that all of the character be allow their humanity and dignity . fiona and the 10 year girl who be at the center of the film and follow her curiosity in a brave but realistic way and never spout wise crack so common with most american child character . imagine be tell an old family story by your favorite uncle or grandfather while sit around a living room late at night and with only the low light provide by the glow of a fire or one old lamp so nothing distracts your imagination journey . that be what this film be like .