Right from the first scenes, this movie has the feel of something special. The unspoken narrative of Becca (Kidman) apparently doing something that gives her pleasure, is striking in its introduction to this piece.

What evolves is the heartfelt story of Becca and Howie (Eckhart) and their return to life after the loss of their infant son. Adapted from the award winning play of the same name, this interpretation by the original playwright (Lindsay-Abaire) loses none of the intensity and emotion that its predecessor offered.

The emotions that are offered up for us to contend with, are strikingly familiar and there would be few that could not empathise with Becca and Howie. It almost felt voyeuristic watching the journey and taking the ride with them.

There is poignancy where the emotional plunge moves to a more positive place. There are moments of understanding as they, as a couple, each try to deal with their tragedy. The highs and lows are wonderfully demonstrated, in particular the depths, as the spiral to the depths of desperation that only a mother who has lost a child could hope to understand.

There is nothing predictable in the journey and the way in which the story is revealed. The talents of Sandra Oh playing Gabby, a woman from their bereavement group and Miles Teller (Jason), the young man who accidentally ran over the infant, lends a blend of confusion and remorse that is palpable to the viewer. Dianne Wiest (Becca’s Mother) adds a level of reflection and emotional warmth that ultimately allows connection with circumstance, place and perspective.

“Rabbit Hole” truly deserves award nominations as the movie as a whole works. The cinematography, sound design and soundtrack are never intrusive and they compliment the story well. All in all, this is a movie that had me entranced from the opening scene.

While “Rabbit Hole” is a tale of tragedy, the humanity of this story of mourning, coping, reacting and re-engaging is one that strikes home as a heartfelt rendering of the effect of loss and the journey back from the emotional abyss.

While you won’t walk out feeling happy, there is a sense of hope and a want that the journey will end as we desire.