Sandy’s Film Reviews

55 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.

French Dispatch, The (2021): Best if you know something of US journalism, literature, the French Art Establishment & mental asylums to take this fast–paced satire fully on board. Even Maigret & French cartoons get riffed. A sharp contrast to the junk on TVNZ. Great fun!
Saint Omer (2022): Beautiful profound & very wise. Powerful feminist movie. Very intelligent & well–acted. Gripping, because it just drip–feeds the plot. A very great film –perfect & agonizing. Requiem for all women, sung by Nina Simone. Grand Jury Prize Cannes 2022.; DVD $29.95
Angela's Ashes (1999): Brilliant acting & dramatic portrait of Ireland in 1930s. Very moving portrait of courage in abject poverty. PROFOUND. Great extras. If hard of hearing, watch the extra "Commentary by Frank McCourt" which has subtitles right through
One Fine Morning (Un Beau Matin) (2022): Everyday charm, contrasting the young & the old. Even if the Director's knowledge of Antarctic mammals is sadly lacking. Otherwise, an intimate & profound portrayal of an intelligent & kind young woman. A nice straightforward film on life's challenges.; DVD $29.95
Science of Sleep, The (2006): I found it stupid rather than amusing. Not even farce. And am not alone in this view. It would be nothing at all without the magic of Charlotte Gainsbourg. Give it a miss!
Missing (2023): Nothing like it. Immensely entertaining. A terrific idea delivered by great acting. Simply stunning; plot; execution–all. Seriously different – loved the intense style. Certainly a thriller for the 21stC; a 'Powerhouse' movie. Extra recommended.
Fireworks Wednesday (Chaharshanbe-soori) (2006): A stressful portrait of family life in a cramped Teheran apt. Very full–on. Intense people who say much with their eyes. Great acting. The constant crash of fireworks is an added stress. Not nearly as good as A SEPARATION, but worthwhile.
Under the Skin (2013): Spectacular shots, great sound. Imperceptibly one starts to bond with the largely silent Johansson character, an alien. Exploitative of a woman's body and sexual attraction, I felt in an insensitive way, but riveting nonetheless.
Border (Gräns) (2018): A film unlike any other! Draws you right in – you want to know more. Good plot & acting. Turns out very much weirder than you expect as it gathers pace. Not for the faint–hearted or impressionable. Definitely worth watching!
Herself (2020): Terrific! Moving, uplifting; DVD $29.95

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Sandy’s Film Reviews