Sandy’s Film Reviews

656 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.

About Elly (2009): You'll never see better ensemble acting than in in this moving, realistic & densely–plotted film of life in today's Iran. Complex, subtle & v. original. At the heart, a mystery. These people Trump wants to kill! Tubbs' comments inappropriate.; DVD $29.95
RBG (2018): The life, courage & even humour of the long–lived Justice who achieved so much for the Rights of Women in America. Very topical, as those rights she fought for so hard are eroded by Trump. US Constitution is a white man's document overdue for revision.
Hotel Artemis (2018): Very violent & incoherent. Not worth watching!
Destination Wedding (2018): Funny & rather witty. Enjoyable & realistic.; DVD $29.95
Being Julia (2004): Brilliantly complex. Outstanding actors reveal in five essential Extras the differences between real life; acting on the stage, & on film. Underrated, despite winning an Oscar; this brilliantly–directed movie with it's tight cast leaves a warm memory.
Custody (Jusqu'à la garde) (2017): Totally realistic picture of domestic violence & bullying of children as at pandemic proportions in Maori & Pasifika populations but effectively ignored. Outstanding actors make one realise that these memories are life–long. Heartbreaking
Radiant City (2006): Very entertaining on characterless new Canadian suburbs, not so different from those being built around Auckland. Amateur cast plays their roles with conviction. Informed commentators fail to mention such suburbs are designed around cars, not people.
Bad Times at the El Royale (2018): Triumph of 60's style over weak plot. Contrast of bourgeois with bizarre attracts, but is soon boring. Made up of semi–coherent armed confrontations. Most westerns better; main strength this movie has is a spooky set.
Sleeping with the Enemy (1991): Tragic story, convincingly told.
Sense of an Ending, The (2017): Great films have a rhythm; this doesn't. Maybe because it's based on a novel. But it's subtle & well–acted and unusual. Recommended.

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Sandy’s Film Reviews