Soderbergh expertly weaves the stories together--they touch each other only tangentially, yet each adds thematically to the whole. And the resulting film is absolutely brilliant. Technically superior (outstanding editing, music, sound, art direction, and sharp cinematography by Soderbergh himself), the film is also blessed with revelatory acting from the entire cast, with standout performances from Douglas, Del Toro and especially Zeta-Jones. Each scene in the film is beautifully layered with meaning, which deepens in the way it's set against the parallel storylines. And there isn't a simplistic, easy answer in sight; on the contrary, the script tackles a horrifically difficult subject with intelligence, wit and a refusal to preach ... even though it has important things to say. And it's not just cerebral--this is a powerfully moving drama that makes us feel, not just think about, the issues involved. It should be mandatory viewing for absolutely everyone ... especially those involved in the war on drugs.