Sandy’s Film Reviews

656 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.

Ballad of Narayama (1983): Provides moving insights into Japanese life in years gone by. Grim, but uplifting. Remains in the memory
Vertigo (1958): Fears generated by watching this movie haunted my youth. Seriously scary – but not suitable for kids. Its slow pace is part of its strength. Your imagination screams out for the worst to happen – don't worry, it will – in good Hichcockian time!
Seven Samurai, The (1954): Rather a lot of fighting in a fantasy world!; DVD $29.95 | Blu-Ray $34.95
Woman of the Dunes (1964): Claustrophobic movie of a classic Japanese novel. Nothing like it in any other language/culture. Well–made and timeless.
Departures (2008): Provides unusual but interesting insights into Japanese life (well, death, actually!) without parallel in the repressed West. An interesting and moving film; DVD $14.95
A Taxing Woman (1987): Underpinning the laughs is –from a Japanese point of view – the incomprehensible sight of a WOMAN leading a police team to investigate MALE crooks. A must–see film for people who have visited Japan, and great fun for everyone else. Strongly recommended.
Adventures of Milo and Otis (1989): Stunning film based on two incredibly well–trained animals who escape to see the world. And they do! One of the best kids' films I know, and also highly recommended for adults. Like most Japanese products, production values are very high.
Hamlet (1964): Highly recommended!
War and Peace (1966): Brilliant spectacle, 6.5 hours in length. Quite gruelling. Ideally watched in a single sitting, with pre–prepared snacks and short breaks every 2 hours. A great introduction to the grand sweep of Russia and its history! Terrific!
Dersu Uzala (1975): A visionary film by the great Japanese director of indigenous Siberian people's lives and beliefs. Incredible photography and a gripping story. An outstanding film!; DVD ~~$19.95~~ $14.95 | Blu-Ray $24.95

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Sandy’s Film Reviews