Sandy’s Film Reviews

656 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.

Selma (2014): SELMA movingly tells the true story of how King and others confronted racism & won in Alabama. It's complex vital history well–acted with great music. Watch it to see how the darkest deeds of Trump can be reversed. Extras are a must–see.
Steamboat Bill Jr (1928): Beautifully restored classic comedy. Not Keaton's greatest, but has everything–action, romance, floods & villains. Music has been added. Outstanding extras include history of exploitation of the Mississippi, and demo of how the stunts were done.
Priceless (2006): Entertaining. Audrey is at her most beguiling. I especially like where she teaches the subtle but slightly poker–faced Moroccan/French Elmaleh how to turn on the charm! Wittier and more fun than many recent French comedies. Well–paced.
Queen of the Desert (2015): The spirit of inquiry & complexity of the time eludes this film which degrades to a series of failed romances. Kidman acts well but is far too tall & beautiful to be Gertrude Bell. Moroccan scenery fails to capture the period. Read her books instead!; DVD $19.95 | Blu-Ray $29.95
Nine Hundred Nights - Big Brother and the Holding Company (2001): A vital piece in history of Rock. Shots back to 1963 but most 65–69. Rewrites Janis' story as part of a group who cared for and launched her career. The ruthless ambition of Janis is exposed but seen to be inevitable. Extra interviews a must–see.
Brooklyn (2015): A relaxing film for a Saturday night; well enough acted and not dull. Denouement about conflicting loyalties interesting; most would put familiarity of home first, but the sheer nastiness of European village life in the 1950s clinches the decision.
Lou Reed - Rock and Roll Heart (1998): Brilliant on songwriting. Consists of images/performances imposed over a long 1998 interview mostly with the musician. A revelation, which we never had with Dylan. Packed with great music and interesting insights. A truly great Rock N' Roll movie.
Calendar (1993): Tiresome! I visited Armenian churches with an informative FEMALE guide, so found this home movie dull, self–centered and superficial. Armenia is a fascinating country with interesting people; it's the oldest Christian country.
Bobby Womack - Jazz Channel (2000): Womack's fierce energy shines right thru this SOUL concert. Great 5.1 DTS audio hidden under "Supplementary". Maestro band and backing singers really rockin' after Cooke's "A Change is Going to Come". Wait for Rossy's sax solo; DVD has great atmo
Wild Tales (Relatos Salvajes) (2014): Very funny distinctively Argentine humour throughout. One has a love/hate sympathy for all main protagonists and thus the film is more than a series of gags. Darin is as ever terrific as "Everyman", but the wedding is rightly the climax.

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Sandy’s Film Reviews