Sandy’s Film Reviews

107 Films have been rated or reviewed by Sandy.

Deliverance (1972): Certainly a classic!; DVD ~~$20~~ $15
Rose, The (1979): Worth watching, fun!; DVD ~~$20~~ $15
Out of Africa (1985): Terrific & memorable!; DVD ~~$20~~ $15
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.

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Sandy’s Film Reviews