...movies will evoke different reactions at different times depending on how tired or cynical you feel at the time.
I think that's very true... and also based on your personal past experience and perspective. I find Woody Allen movies especially irritating, yet I know many people just love his movies.
Did you ever read the books Shogun or Tai Pei? I've really been intrigued at the cultural differences that these books bring to light.
I guess I was in a good mood when I watched Phantom Of The Opera (the new version). Lots of people gave it a raspberry, but I really enjoyed it. So there you go.