one of the best films EVER..

I saw this when it came out in '87 (25 years ago!!??!!), just watched it again on Netflix and was as touched by it as I was back then. The cinematography, music, nuanced performances by the principle actors as well as a very original and uncontrived story all add up to a truly memorable and (in my opinion) underrated film. The musical number/magic show toward the end was a bit unexpected and over the top but adds to the fantasy world in which the viewer finds him or herself. It's one of my all time favorite films.
BTW, I happened to recognize CCH Pounder on Royal St. in New Orleans in the mid 90's and in addition to being an extremely talented actress, she was exceedingly polite, graceful and charming..