Sandy’s Film Reviews

656 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.

Mary Magdalene (2018): Not convincing, either as a portrait of a woman or a movement. Basically religious hocus–pocus. And did Judas really have to be black?
Bombshell (2019): Witty & informative. I admire the courage of those that spoke out and sympathize with the victims of this fat predator who were under too much pressure to do so. Very up–to–date and highly relevant; a disgusting 21stC disease of men in power.; DVD ~~$24.95~~ $18.70
Sorry We Missed You (2019): No, you don't hear much about the stress generated by the 'convenience' of online shopping or care–giving. Or the direction of the UK under Brexit. Or the effect of the collapse of Northern Rock. Brilliant picture of real family dynamics in stress.; DVD ~~$20~~ $15, $24.95
Buoyancy (2019): Convincing depiction of widespread slavery in fishing, even in NZ. Anyone thinking that slavery was abolished in 1834 should read the true facts; there are more slaves today than ever before in history and they are cheaper, priced at $50 ea.
Non-Fiction (Non Fiction) (2018): Brilliant fast–paced film with rather rapid French subtitles; unusual and very good.; DVD $29.95
Meeting Gorbachev (2018): Extremely intelligent film. Herzog asks penetrating questions & gets answers which are worth pondering. Gorbachev's loneliness following the early death of his wife Raisa are moving. He was one of the most progressive politicians of the 20thC.
Tell It To The Bees (2018): Nicely done Scottish film of the 1950s. Subtle, with a profound edge. A beautiful film in many ways. Maybe NZ was more progressive, but I knew lots of women in Lesbian relationships in these years and few/no eyebrows were raised here. Terrific acting.
Jo-Jo Rabbit (JoJo Rabbit) (2019): Rather lightweight!
For Sama (2019): Best doco on the Syrian tragedy. These gentle, kind & brave men & women kept this secret hospital open during 4 years of intense bombing. Personal, intimate and real; as are the people of Aleppo. I love their loyalty to this city, the world's oldest.
Suzi Q (2019): Australian biopic of a nice woman, born Detroit, but unpopular in USA. Amazing footage as a teen with her sisters' band, then London to find a glam–rock producer. Leather & a bass guitar. Inspired Joan Jett, who also appears. Still alive, still playing.

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Sandy’s Film Reviews