Sandy’s Film Reviews
656 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.
Manet: The Man Who Invented Modern Art (2011)
Disappointing c.f. incisive analysis of Goya by Hughes or the romantic picture of the late Renoir, both at Arovideo. This blustering presentation ignores influences on Manet or of his work on Impressionism. Millet is unmentioned. Manet paints in a vacuum.
Limits of Control, The (2009)
Stylish 'action movie in drag' i.e. without action. Slow & repetitive pace is intended – see Extras. Jarmusch wanted to ‘reference dreams that you are not sure you had’. I think he does this successfully – the slow pace being the pace of dreams. 
Rosalie Blum (2016)
Delightful & intriguing story, neither overly light or heavy. Much humour balanced by a sad undertow.Terrific acting, especially by Alice Isaaz as Aude. Excellent performances by all the girls & the pets! Recommended.
I Am Not Your Negro (2016)
- Hard–hitting, brilliant integration of familiar & unfamiliar footage with Baldwin's profound analysis of America's racial divide. Very relevant today.
- DVD $24.95
Farthest, The (2017)- Stunningly engaging & unexpectedly moving. Perhaps the greatest technical feat of the 20thC. Presented by those who crafted & programmed Voyager I. You don't need to be passionate about space to love this movie. It's breathtaking!
Lady Macbeth (2016)- Sex scenes do not a movie make. Not engaging.
Frantz (2016)- Stunningly well–made, full of tension & surprises. This is no ordinary "war movie". It's exceptionally beautiful, mostly in b&w and the acting is beyond outstanding, especially the subtlety of Paula Beer. Deeply moving. One of the best movies of 2016.
It Comes at Night (2017)
Horror films shouldn't be boring. This one is. Very little happens, all of it slowly! The take–home message is that, if you have a dog, keep it on a lead. 
Sophie Scholl: The Final Days (2005)- Filmed with great integrity. Julia Jentsch plays Sophie as low–key, but very strong. Extra interviews with living family members & Mohr's son shed more light on the times & reveal how progressive the Scholl family is. Real footage of trial horrifying.
Devil's Candy, The (2016)
Very scary & convincing. Clever, subtle, well–made & well–acted. Unfocused tension from the first moment. I especially liked the Devil Incarnate as an Art Dealer & his side–kick. Not recommended for children or teenagers. Artists, yes!
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