The Butterfly Effect

Constant hopelessness and despair in a perfect package of time jumps and the ensuing catastrophes. Back when The Butterfly Effect was still an unknown video cult film, I found myself standing stunned in front of the screen, because a directorial debut like this is a miracle. There are few movies where the viewer wishes more for a happy ending, because there are too many constant bad ones for one nervous system. True happiness can only be achieved through sacrifice. (12/08/2005)

I'm almost ashamed that I put off such an interesting, iconic, even cult film for so long. A great Ashton Kutcher, a great and flawless execution without logical holes and inconsistencies, and an even better presentation of the "butterfly effect" and the fatality of some situations. This film has no flaws, I sat riveted in my seat, just waiting to see what would happen next. Rightfully one of the best films of all time. (09/10/2023)

During the first act the chills made a car track out of my back, about halfway through I had no idea were it was going and the unexpected shifts in the plot kept me on my toes, and by the end I was one more satisfied viewer. A dense atmosphere, excellent direction and an interesting story make The Butterfly Effect a movie that won't let you catch your breath. Then even the logical holes in the script and the fact that the theme of temporal paradoxes is not revelatory (and has been handled better in many other movies) can be forgiven. This film has a lot of appeal. And, by the way, Amy Smart is gorgeous. (01/22/2005)

The psycho beginning aside, this is a nice and sensual film. However, I was quite confused in the first few minutes and had absolutely no idea who was getting the beating. Then it got clearer and I couldn't stop staring. Ashton Kutcher played like we haven't seen him before and Amy Smart was a great partner for him. I experienced that killing feeling of helplessness with them to the maximum. And it scares me just to think that someone would sacrifice themselves for me like that without me ever knowing about it. I even shed a tear at the end. Nice, 4 stars. (02/07/2012)

The idea that we could travel back in time and change the past as we see fit is so appealing that even I sometimes get swept away by a film that tells this story. Here, however, the frequent illogicality of the plot spoiled the overall impression. Even Ashton Kutcher couldn’t save it. He is nice to look at, but unfortunately, that's about it. (65%) (11/20/2021)