Sandy’s Film Reviews
656 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.
No Ordinary Sheila (2017)
Very interesting and moving especially if you are interested in NZ art & literature. The best NZ film of 2017 – completely unique. Destined to become a classic. 
Venus (2006)
- Brilliance of the 5 main actors is matched only by the wit of the script. Wonderful portrait of vivacious old age intertwined with gauche youth, outstandingly played by Jodie Whittaker in her first film. Funny, but with the humour coloured by loss
Kedi (2016)
Great camera work & editing produce a unique film exposing the love that people of Islam have for domestic animals & birds. Humility & gentleness of ordinary Turks is an antidote to the hatred of the West for a world of which they know nothing. 
My Cousin Rachel (2017)
Proves that books rarely translate into good films. Best efforts by actors, costume & set designers can't move it. Creative direction would set the film in the present day. But then the story, written in 1950, would have seemed even more ridiculous! 
Country Doctor, The (Irreplaceable) (2016)
An unusual, interesting film – obviously of interest to doctors & lovers of the French countryside & village life – but not without a more serious, psychological side as well. One joy – women are nowhere patronised. - DVD $29.95
Berlin Syndrome (2017)- Realistic suspenseful and fearful story. Well–structured & convincing with very strong characters and never a dull moment. Horror film with a totally believable plot – doubly scary. Just as gripping on a second viewing.
Mustang (2015)- Near Rize wealthy GRANDPARENTS struggle with 5 lively teenagers & decide to marry them off. Unmentioned is success of arranged marriages & property deals that enable them. Girls get educated to reduce their dowry (Ergüven?). Facile but entertaining.
Me, Them & Lara (2009)- Very funny & topical comedy takes "the Mickey' out of wealthy middle–aged Catholic western Europeans in favour of those dreaded immigrants from Eastern Europe & Africa! Youth & the aged come out rather well, too. Guaranteed fun & surprises!
La Nostra Vita (Our Life) (2010)- Lots of Italian family life; realistic plot & workplace; well–acted & great camera work.
All Governments Lie (All Governments Lie: Truth, Deception and the Spirit of I. F. Stone) (2016)- Powerful up–to–date account of the role of the media in facilitating our acceptance of government lies, prevalent in NZ as elsewhere. Shows how a tiny handful of truly independent journalists like I.F. Stone contribute to society, unlike corporations.
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