I remember reading a cryptic review of a little novel that was highly recommended but, as the reviewer noted, to tell much about the story would be to tell too much.

Intrigued, I got a copy of Emma Donoghue’s book Room and slipped into another world perfectly evoked through the eyes of an unusual five-year-old boy. I was so deeply drawn into the story that at times I could hardly breathe.

Could I continue to put myself through an emotional wringer? I asked that question repeatedly when I would pause before turning another page and am glad that I decided to forge ahead despite my angst.

With the film as with the book, to tell much about the story would be to tell too much, but both are beautifully rendered even when the events that unfold are horrific and mundane at the same time.

Superb performances, striking cinematography, intimate and authentic direction – there is a great deal to recommend Room.

In fact, I can’t think of any weaknesses here. Do yourself a favor and don’t read more about it before seeing Room.