Ressurecting an ancient thread here, but I just bought this on DVD, having missed it previously.
I LOVE this film. I can understand why people could find it a bit confusing if they are not paying attention, and I think the clue is in the opening phrase of the film, which is essentially the underlying theme of the whole movie. You have to watch
very carefully if you want to get the full impact of this magnificently constructed story, as there are many intertwined flashbacks-within-flashbacks.
The characterisations were spot on, and the performances were enthralling. Not to mention the cavalcade of plot twists that build to a fantastic but, at the same time, highly credible climax.
A thoroughly enjoyable film.
NB: Spoiler in next post.