By reading the review of Captain Corelli's Mandolin (Ahead, May 2), I almost missed a good film. It was described as dull, boring and naff - a very negative criticism - but I decided to see for myself.

The location scenery was breathtaking, the music haunting and Nicolas Cage just right as Corelli.

Although at times he lost his accent, this did not detract from his character.

Penelope Cruz was every young man's dream and John Hurt gave a very moving performance as the doctor.

As for the film being slow, life on a small island or village, especially in the Mediterranean, is slow. To have quickened the pace would have made the story less believable.

It's a beautiful love story entwined with the plight of the many Italian soldiers who were massacred in Cephalonia. Criticism is good but when it is totally negative it is useless. I would certainly pay to see the film again.

-Nina Skinner, Lawrence Road, Hove