For starters, this movie is more than it seems. It is more than just an epic following the history of a certain violin. It is more than a poetic journey through time. It is the last true masterpiece of the 90's. It is a beautiful grouping of cinematography, characters, music, and most of all, heart. The makes of this film saw more to everything than just a red violin with various owners. They saw an opportunity to tell a story that rivals the Old Testament. If only the Academy could recognize such beautiful work, then they'd not be condemned.
If you've not seen this movie, see it now. Rent it, rent it again, rent it again, and then buy it. Buy it on VHS. Buy it on DVD. Buy the soundtrack 7 times so it never wears out.