I really wanted to see it and now that I have... I kinda liked it. Still analyzing it in my head. But at the end, I didn't feel good for any of the characters, though I don't think that was the intent of the story.
I got a little confused in the chronology of the storytelling - sometimes I wasn't sure if what was happening was a flashback or currently happening.
I agree with your comment on Natalie Portman, *Sweetie*. However, I have to say that with her acting, I never think of her previous roles. My boyfriend just sees the little girl from The Professional. I felt it was true when Larry said to Anna, "You're a woman. She's a girl." Alice was the character I cared about the most, probably because I felt her vulnerability.
Ugh... what's the rule on discussing details from this movie?