Anthony Hopkins is magnificent, unfortunately the golden words that fill his mouth early on, run less freely as the film progresses. And with the exception of Ed Harris', no other performances stand out.

As a whole the film feels disjointed, un-unified. Beginning with a car accident that occurs at the chronologically at 3/4 mark. This writing technique is far too often utilized and too seldom with much effect.

That said, the cinematography is pretty good, but even better is the interesting points the film makes about racism and political correctness. These main ideas and story lines -- are intriguing and important, but save for the outset, I found their realization less and less engaging on an emotive level. Actually, the film begins at an A level then gradually loses its grip on the audience.

Says Philip Roth of the title: "It speaks to that which is imperfect in us as humans. The Catholics call it original sin, I suppose. It is simply that which creates the human mess." Director Robert Benton adds, "To me, the human stain is the mark we leave on everything. It speaks to the fact that we can't get through life without marking the world around us in some way. We have no choice. It's part of being human."