Sandy’s Film Reviews
104 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.
Far From Heaven (2002)
Shot in a very traditional style, but would Julianne wear a fur on a warm night, as signaled by cicadas? Lush production values with every shot a fine composition. Denis Haysbert is excellent. It's a feast of stunning colour and compostion throughout. 
Fear Eats the Soul (1973)
A fine new print of a great movie which I first saw 50 years ago. It's a powerful critique of German racism, misogyny & ageism. Could such a brave film be made in Germany today? Emmie is just marvellous & Todd Haynes' commentary insightful
Age of Reason, The (With Love... from the Age of Reason) (2010)
Sophie Marceau plays a rather unlikeable character well. I found the jokey, contrived "memories" strangely facile & contrived. Even in this Beldgian idea of a "comedy". Comedies can have a fantastic element but this is wholly unconvincing. 
Sisters or the Balance of Happiness (Schwestern oder Die Balance des Glücks) (1979)- Dated in style & content. A poor print. Terribly disappointing, even for fanatics of von Trotta (like me). Glacial pace & not up to the standards of all her other movies. Avoid!
Delicacy (2011)
Unusual but gripping. Tautou is such a bright star, lighting up wherever she goes. 
Velvet Queen, The (2021)
- Opens with stunning photography of Tibet & the wolves. One of the most beautiful films you could ever see & a relief from Attenborough set–ups. The story of a great adventure, too. Not a lecture. Impressive & moving in every way.
- DVD $29.95
Alice in the Cities (1974)- It's quiet & at the very start, a sandpiper runs along the tideline, barely discernable. Delightful, enjoyable, gentle & relaxing – and funny. Alice is very real & amusing. In fact, all characters fascinate. A very likeable film.
Sheer Madness (Heller Wahn) (1983)- Starts with a contrived, clichéd family reunion followed by solemn poetry tutorials. But Ruth (Winkler) is a riveting character and Schygulla are just brilliant. It's a a strong & interesting tale, a paen to women's friendship. Wonderful!
Anora (2024)
After a boring slow start improves once they get to Vegas. After which it becomes much funnier, but only the last brief scene is truly revealing. Gripping & funny in a low–brow way. That a trashy B–grade spoof should win great awards is depressing. - DVD $29.95 | Blu-Ray $34.95
A Cat in Paris (Une Vie De Chat) (2010)- Good story in stylish French way. Much liked by audience of five, aged 8–80 yrs. Crooks suitably buffoonish & the girl & cat were heroes, with help from a gentle cat–burglar. Dub English version was a must for our youngest. Great extras.
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