Cinematographer Darius Khondji (Se7en, Funny Games) gets some gorgeous visuals out of window-refracted neon, moody lighting and exquisite framing. And eclectic guitarist Ry Cooder's moody jazz backdrop adds a dreamy, romantic melancholy that distinguishes Wong's best films.

The casting of Norah Jones in the lead role was probably the biggest risk involved in this film project, and gives an ignorable performance in her first starring role. Strathairn and Weisz bring some much needed oomph to their characters. But it is Chan Marshall (aka Cat Power), who packs a large performance into her little scene as Jude Law's returning girlfriend, Katya. It's just a shame that the script and performances can't match up to the iconographic Americana romanticism visuals.