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Reviews
Silver Haze (2023)
Solid British Indie Film with a great lead performance
This is Director Sacha Polak and lead actress Vicky Knight second film after 2019's Dirty God, about a young mother who disfigured after an acid attack. Both starring Vicky Knight, herself suffering bad burns when she was a child. Silver Haze seems to be the most based on her life, it also has her own real life family playing her on screen family (her real life young sister, Charlotte is especially good as her younger sister in this).
This is Vicky's film all the way, and she brings it as Franky. Esmé Creed-Miles (Samantha Morton is her mum) is really solid as Franky's troubled girlfriend. She's not always most likeable of characters and this film has quite a few. It's not a easy watch, the really closed in cinematography also adds to tension.
I hope Vicky Knight sticks to acting and maybe goes off and does something out her comfort zone. She's got a nice presence on screen. Creed-Miles although nowhere near the actress her mother was at her age (Morton was one of best acting talents of her generation) just give Florence a likeability.
I sadly doubt the film will get much traction and that be a shame. I do think it's better then it's IMDB rating right now (6.2 of right now).
Tove (2020)
A really enjoyable biopic on the creator of The Moomins
Be warned although based on the life of author of a kid's creation, this one is definitely not for the kids.
Although it's heartwarming and quite sad in places, it's one of the better biopic's on artists I've seen in a while. Carried by a excellent performance from Alma Pöysti as Tove Jansson, probably best known for Aki Kaurismaki's recent film Fallen Leaves. She's really a likeable presence on screen.
The film doesn't really shy away from Tove's Bisexuality or her sex life. Although I did think the film did underplay Tove's lifelong partner Tuulikki Pietila role in her life (she gets a few minutes near the end) and it's mostly based around her love affair with Vivica Bandler.
At 1hr 40mins, it doesn't overstay it's welcome. The cast are really excellent. It's not breaking any new ground or anything but having such a likeable lead actress in Pöysti carrying the film does help it. I hope that with success of Fallen Leaves, that we see more of her working outside of Finland.
Lakelands (2022)
Well Acted Irish Drama
First time feature film from Directing/Writing duo Patrick McGivney and Robert Higgins. Set in Cavan, Ireland. Cian (played excellently by Eanna Hardwicke) who is a young farmer who helps his dad. While enjoying playing Gaelic football at the weekends, while also going out for a few pints with his mates. During one of these nights out, he gets badly beaten which leads to a career ending concussion and Cian struggling to come to grips with what he loves been taken away from him.
Soon a old friend Grace (nice turn from Danielle Galligan) comes back home from years away in England (she's now a nurse) to take care of her dying father. They meet up again and strike back up their friendship . And both are a big help to each other during tough times.
Hardwicke does feel like he could pass as Paul Mescal's brother. And I do wonder if the role was written for him, as Mescal did do a short film called Drifting for the Directors a year or two before, with two of Lakeland's cast Lorcan Cranitch (who play's Cian dad) and Dafhyd Flynn (as Cian's Friend).
I like that, although there is a tinge of romantic feelings I thought, Cian and Grace are really just friends. Already its set up not far into the film that Grace has a boyfriend in the UK. So I woldn't say this is a romantic film at all.
It's not going to win any film of the year awards or anything but it shows that Directors have a great career ahead of themselves and Hardwicke is a actor to keep a eye on.
First Girl I Loved (2016)
A Film that loses it's way in it's last third.
I admire it more then like this 2016 film from director Kerem Sanga.
Performances from Brianna Hildebrand and Dylan Gelula were good. The first part of the film dealing with Anne's romance with popular student Sasha was film's strongest part. Then it just proceeds to get darker and more downbeat as the film goes on especially anything to do with Clifton, Anne's ex best friend turned sex crazed Jealous bully. The third act completely lost me as it just got way too dark. The end wasn't the best.
The worst thing is every character is really dislikeable in the end including Anne, who outs Sasha cause of a jealous rage. Clifton turns into a sexual abuser and Sasha just turns into a cold hearted so and so.
I think if Sanga probably made Anne a bit more likeable I think the ending would have landed better. But by the time Anne cycles off on her new bike, I just didn't cate really.
I can totally understand why this film has a low rating as going by the poster and title of the film, you'd be expecting a lovely coming of age love story about two girls but it's nowhere near close to that. It's a pretty downbeat dark tale of teenage life. A different title and poster and if the people promoting the film did a better cut of the trailer, I think this film might have done better.
Breaking the Ice (2022)
A really solid Austrian Ice Hockey Film
This film isn't breaking any new ground in terms of the usual sport film you see maybe besides the lead been a Lesbian Ice Hockey player. It does the same old beats of any sports film you seen before with a male character in it .
But it's got heart to it and performance from Alina Schaller as Mira is really good. Judith Altenberger as her new team mate and rival turned lover is charming in the little she's given to do. To be fair the performances across the board are good. The film is well shot and is workman like.
I like that Mira isn't struggling with her sexuality in the film, in the first 5 minutes of the film. She meets a older woman on a dating app and has a one night stand with her. To be fair even the love story between Mira and Theresa doesn't get a ton of time in the film, It's mostly kept to last part of the film and they have a nice sex scene and they end up together at the end at least until Theresa goes off for her try out in America for hockey.
This is far more about Mira's family life with her overworked mother, Grandfather with dementia and her flaky party animal brother. With Mira carrying all weight on her shoulder's with the family wine business. That gets most of the films running time along with the ice hockey stuff.
But I would definitely recommend this film, the performances are good and at 1hr 42 minutes the film doesn't outstay it's welcome. Could have done with more of the love story with Mira/Theresa but that's a minor complaint.
Kiss Me Kosher (2020)
Really sweet rom com from Israel
I'm really surprised by 5.8 rating on this site for the film. It's not a classic film of it's genre but it's far better then it's rating. Definitely a film worth watching for anyone who likes a good romantic comedy.
Basically a story about a relationship between Israel woman and German woman, and the hurdles of Culture, their sexuality, Families are to be overcome. It doesn't reinvent the wheel when it comes to it's rom com roots, you get the ups and downs with the big happy ending like all the films of that genre. Also like the nod to There's Something About Mary, with the band breaking the fourth wall.
I liked the performances from both leading ladies, neither I've ever seen before. Moran Rosenblatt as Shira is likeable and a good focal point of the film. But for me Luise Wolfram as Maria, the German woman she loves is great. She's brings a lot of warmth to Maria, with little nice touches like her hiccuping when she's nervous. Also she's a strikingly beautiful woman to boot, a tall red head. But their romance has a ton of heart and both actresses have enough chemistry to sell you on their romance.
John Carroll Lynch (the husband of Frances McDormand in Fargo) is probably most noticeable face from the cast. He's very good in a smaller role as Shira's father. Rivka Michaeli as Shira's Grandmother is fine. Also I really liked Aviv Pinkas as Shira's sister and Naama Amit as co owner/best friend of Shira. Neither have big parts but they are best acting talent from the rest of the cast.
Again it's no classic and it's definitely cheesy in places (especially the last few minutes) but it's heart is in the right place and the two leads are likeable. Direction by Shirel Peleg is solid and script is cliche in spots but that's fine. Well worth checking this one out.
Summer of Mesa (2020)
Enjoyable Coming of Age low budget film
Things I really liked about this film but it's got it's flaws for sure. This feature length version of director's Josh Cox's short Touch Me Not was made for I believe 400 Dollars. The short has different actresses then the feature.
I do think feature would have probably made a stronger 40 minute film as my biggest criticism of the film is it drags in places. You could end out 20 minutes or so of the film and even more and it would have made the film a lot stronger. I would have also liked more scenes between Mesa and Lily, it felt Lily spent more time around John the guy who was into her then Mesa. I wasn't that invested in the love story as much as I was with the short film.
Surprisingly for a low budget film the acting isn't that bad, two leading ladies are solid. And the look of the film (even though it doesn't feel very 80's set to me) is not bad at all. You can feel the budget at times with the sound which isn't always great.
The film is very slow so if you aren't into that be warned this won't be for you. But Josh Cox and his crew did a great job, and I don't want to be bashing the film cause making it for 400 dollars and having it look as great as it is deserves praise. And I would recommend watching the short especially and then full length film, both on YouTube and have high views
6/10.
The Intervention (2016)
Strong debut in Director chair for Clea DuVall
Strong Vibes of 80's classic Big Chill are all over Clea Duvall's debut film as Director/Writer. Even Alia Shawkat character feels like a nod to Meg Tilly from that film. Although nowhere near the quality of that film, DuVall still produces a film better then it's 6 rating on this site. I preferred it to her follow up Happiest Season, which lacks the bite and edge this debut film has.
Also it's great nearly 17 years later to see the trio from the classic But I'm a Cheerleader in Duvall, Melanie Lynskey and Natasha Lyonne on screen again. Even Duvall/Lyonne play a couple in this like former film. The cast is unformily great especially Lynskey and Ben Schwartz. Shawkat brings a charm to her role. I do think Lyonne is slightly underused but she still brings to her.
Basic plot is Four couples on a getaway together are baffled when one of them realises that their entire trip is a planned intervention to help them in their respective marriages.
It mixes it's comedy/drama pretty well. I actually like the ending for real life married couple Josh Ritter and Melanie Lynskey characters that Lynskey's Annie is willing to give up the man she loves cause she just doesn't want to marry or have kids. It's pretty hearbreaking as you expect them to be the ones to last to the end. Lyonne/DuVall lesbian couple aren't really given a ton to do in the film. Go see But I'm a Cheerleader to really catch them at their best.
At 1hr 28mins, i think the film could have done with another 20 minutes to get to know the characters better imo. But it's a nitpick. It's a solid film and shows DuVall has a potential career as a strong filmmaker.
At 1hr 28mins.
Kokon (2020)
Strong German Coming of Age Film, with excellent Central Performance.
This is one of the stronger coming of age films I've seen and it's sadly barely spoken about.
Nora, a shy 14 year old hangs with her 16 year old sister Jule and her best friend Aylin. As they spend most of their days basking in the sun, making out with the guys, smoking weed and hanging out at the Pool.
Nora is clearly uncomfortable with the whole thing, so it's no surprise when someone like Romy comes along who offers her a chance to break out of her shell. Nora takes it with both hands. Romay is the cool indie hipster with short blonde hair who seems total exotic to young Nora.
The film certainly lays in the metaphor of the caterpillar's life cycle. With Nora having a colony of caterpillar's next to her bed. It's a little over done in the film I find, but it makes sense of a butterfly metamorphosis and a coming of age film.
The film deals nicely and with compassion on things such as a young teenage girls first period with Nora's discomfort and shame taking centre stage rather than leading her to become the subject of humiliation from her classmates. This is when she first meets Romy who shows her kindness and helps her out instead of mocking her.
I did think the first blossoming of romance for Nora with Romy isn't giving enough time. And it ends pretty much as quickly as it starts. I don't know if any watchers of the film will enjoy the ending with Romy but I thought it was fine and shows Nora doesn't need her anymore. But again don't go into the film expecting a Lesbian teenage romance, it barely gets 20 minutes if that of the film.
Lena Urzendowsky as Nora is fantastic, she reminds me a bit of. Bea Powley in The Diary of a Teenage Girl. That you totally buy her growth from a innocent sweet teenager into a young woman by the film's end. She's one to watch for the future. Jella Haase as Romy, is good in the amount of time she's given. Although she was a bit tougher to buy as a teenager. Lena Klenke as Jula, Nora's older sister was great.
It's not the greatest coming of age film ever made but it deserves more eyes put on it. Just for lead performance alone.
You Can Live Forever (2022)
A Sad but Wonderful film
Haven't been moved by a film in such a long time as much as I have by this Canadian romantic drama. I usually wince or just roll my eyes when it comes to romantic films. But this one really hit me in the feels.
Well directed and writeen by duo Sarah Watts and Mark Slutsky. After the sudden death of her father, Jaime Buckley is sent by her mother to live with her aunt Beth and uncle Jean-François in a small town in Quebec, home to a devout Jehovah's Witness congregation. Jaime is reluctantly convinced to attend the congregation's meeting, where she catches the eye of Marike, the daughter of the congregation's leader, Frank.
I definitely think this film is elevated by it's two lead performances from Anwen O'Driscoll as Jaime and June Laporte as Marike. They have a ton of chemistry and both work well together. O'Driscoll has the more time on screen but Laporte has the meatier role I feel.
I don't know how people will feel about the ending. But I thought it was heartbreaking in a way but some will see it as hopeful. Marike is married with a kid but looked seriously unhappy. Jaime clearly isn't over Marike and probably French Canadian woman she was sleeping with near the end wasn't her only booty call. But it feels like Jamie will sadly probably be bit on the side while Marike plays happy families to keep up appearances.
But the ending for sure will cause a lot of debate if you think it's a hopeful or sad ending for Jaimie especially. But I thought Overall it's a film I could see was very strong and well told.
Fucking Åmål (1998)
Still One of the Best Coming of Age Films there is
Winner of 4 Guldbagge Awards (Swedish Oscars) and a film that outgrossed Titanic in the Swedish Box Office to the great Ingmar Bergman bestow massive praise on Writer/Director Luka Moodysson. Show Me Love (the original title is so much better though) is for me one of the best films of the 90's and also a one of best coming of age films you are every likely to see.
Carried by two wonderful performances from Alexandra Dahlstorm and Rebecka Liljeberg. Two girls, Agnes and Elin, attend school in the small town of Åmål, Sweden. Elin is outgoing and popular but finds her life unsatisfying and dull. Agnes, by contrast, has no real friends and is constantly depressed. Agnes is in love with Elin but cannot find any way to express it.
Moodysson delivers a film that is parts Mike Leigh mixed with John Hughes. And funnily enough it works to perfection. And the characters feel and act like teenagers which is so refreshing. All the cast of teenagers were all under 20 (remember at that time teen films they were mostly played by mid to late 20's actors/actresses).
I always saw the film in two halves. First part based around Agnes and the building up of the romance between Agnes and Elin. And the second part, where Agnes takes the backseat for most of rest of films running time to Elin figuring out her sexuality. First she tries to ignore it by getting together with the loveable but clueless Johan (played brilliantly by Mathias Rust) but slowly becomes to realise she loves Elin.
Both Dahlstorm and Liljeberg are great in their roles . But Dahlstorm as Elin probably has the more meatier of the roles. Also special praise to Erica Carlson as Jessica, Elin older sister. Who probably gets the most screentime outside of the two leads. Also Ralph Carlsson as Agnes father, he's not in it much but leaves his mark as a father trying his best to give his daughter the best advice he can. It's one of reasons why I love this film so much.
We get the happy ending and the ending is one of best endings to a film ever imo. Moodysson went on to major success with Together and Lilya 4 Ever and then fell into a bit of slump but returned to form with We are the Best! In 2013, which is the closet film to tone to Show Me Love. Neither Dahlstorm or Liljeberg or any of the cast really went on to any real success in their acting careers. Liljeberg actually quit acting and went on to become a Doctor.
The film does feel of it's time in terms of fashion and the music (besides the indie music from Broder Daniel). Also the Dogma95 style camera work. But if you look past that you got a fantastic film and at 85 minutes it's a breeze to watch.
Blood & Gold (2023)
Love letter to Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds and Spaghetti Westerns
Released on Netflix this year, this German World War II actioner is far better then 6.5 rating on here. It make a great double bill with Finish action film Sisu (2022), which both have same opening credits look that Tarantino went with for IB and over the top bloody action.
You got the badass German Solider hero Heinrich, who's fed up with the war and wanting to get home to his daughter (after he lost his wife, Son and unborn child). Of course, he's got all the medals and fought on all the fronts just to smash home this isn't some ordinary solider. He ends up deserting at the beginning and is left to hang by the SS. Robert Masser is a great action hero and as a trained stuntman pulls of the action scenes without any issue. But he pulls of the more serious acting moments without a fuss.
Marie Hacke is a great foil to Masser as Village girl Elsa, who saves him from the noose. She's no damsel in distress and has a few scenes where she's able to handle herself in fights. The Villains from SS to the scheming Villagers are also well played. Florian Schmidtke as Dofler the second in command is probably most memorable of them.
I don't think the film is a classic or anything. It does suffer a bit when it's away from the action espcially with the scheming Villagers arc. I would have liked Heinrich to be way more involved in the last third of the film in terms of the action. The Fight scene in Elsa's house is probably the only real badass scene we see from him and that's in the early part of the film.
I did like it wasn't afraid to kill off Elsa's brother Paule, who has down syndrome. Most films even action films wouldn't dare do it.
Blue Jean (2022)
Fine Debut British drama from Georgia Oakley
Set in 80's Thatcher's Britain, 2022's Blue Jean (Jean's partner Viv nickname for her) is a nice calling card first time feature film maker Georgia Oakley. With a strong central performance from Rosy McEwan, who I've not seen before but definitely one to put down for a potential future major talent.
When I first read the synopsis for this, I thought it was going to be about closeted Lesbian Teacher falls in love or becomes obessed with one of female students and her life begins to unravel. But nope, Jean has a girlfriend Viv, who's she very much in love with but is still very much in the closet as she's frightened that she might lose her job as a P. R Teacher over it. While Viv is very much out and isn't afraid for people to know it. We find out Jean and her mother are no longer talking and her Sister while playing it nice wih Jean is not a big fan of her sister sexuality. Also in the background from news reports we hear about Section 28.
We also get a storyline with Lois (Lucy Halliday, very good in the little she's given on screen) a 15 year old who Jean takes a shine too and brings her onto the Netball team. With star student, Siobhan taking a instant dislike to Lois. Leading to Siobhan setting up Lois for assault (Siobhan comes out to her in the shower) and Jean not backing Lois and clearing her of any guilt cause Jean doesn't want to be outed.
One thing from the film I probably was left wondering was with Siobhan character. Did she set up Lois cause she was a closeted Lesbian herself and had feelings for Jean or was she out just to destroy both Lois and Jean. You see little glimpses of her getting upset that Jean shows more attention to Lois then her.
Don't worry the film ends on a happy note. Although Oakley racks up the tension for most of the second act where you feel it might end on a downer.
Beautiful shot making it feel like most 80's Northern Englan cities. With some strong performances from all the cast, one thing I like is that all the women aren't supermodel looking and look like every day women. Strong debut and I'll keep a eye out for Oakley's next film.
Tillsammans (2000)
One of Best Swedish films of last few decades.
But still oddly underseen by many. It tends to be overlooked by Moodysson fans who go for the wonderful Lesbain coming of age debut Show Me Love or his hard hitting third feature Lilya 4 Ever. But Tillsammans a.k.a Together is every bit as great as those films and deserves to be given the same fanfare.
Any film that opens and ends with ABBA's "S. O. S" will always win you around. Together is set in one of the sharehome communes that was created around Stockholm in the 1970s. Loosely led by the kind-natured Göran, who will do anything to avoid a conflict, the group spend their time arguing about left-wing politics and other more practical issues, such as whether doing the dishes is bourgeois. The sharehome's dynamics are significantly shaken when Göran's sister, Elisabeth, leaves her violent husband Rolf and moves in, bringing her two children Eva and Stefan.
This film really is carried for me by the late great Michael Nyqvist as Rolf. The husband of Elisabeth. It's tough to win an audience around to a man who puts his hands on a woman. But in the end you do and Rolf actually grows and becomes a better man and father for it. Tough job but Nyqvist does it perfectly.
Gustaf Hammarsten as Goran, the kind hearted but put upon young brother of Elisabeth. Who is used and abused by his younger girlfriend (the best scene in the whole film is when Goran finally snaps and throws her out of the commune). To be fair all adult actors are great in their parts.
But like most of Moodysson's films, he tends to bring out some of the best performances from child actors and this is no difference. Emma Samuelsson as Eva, the daughter of Rolf and Elisabeth especially is great. Like most of Moodysson's child actor's she hasn't done anything since.
Also the film has one of the best endings to a film for me, with the whole family playing football in the snow while ABBA's S. O. S plays will leave you with a big smile.
The film was a box office success in Sweden and actually made quite a bit of money overseas especially in America and U. K.
In 2022, Moodysson filmed a sequel to the film, titled Together 99. It is set to be released in 2023. The sequel is set in 1999 and follows Göran and Klas as they establish a new commune. Most of the actors returned, with the exception of the children, Michael Nyqvist, who passed away in 2017, and Ola Rapace.
Extraction 2 (2023)
Extraction II is up there with truly great action films
I always felt Chris Hemsworth would find his true calling as a action star away from Marvel films if he just found the right role. Tyler Rake, the main bad ass hero from Extraction was a role Hemsworth was born to play. It's his John Wick.
I was a big fan of Extraction when it first dropped on Netflix back in 2020. It was in same vein as The Raid and John Wick films, just those bad ass action films that rarely get made anymore. Where the lead actor is actually doing his own action and is believeable doing it. Sam Hargrave in the director's chair is another action director to watch out for in the future.
For me Extraction II is stronger then the first film just for the 25 minute or so prison break out and escape. It wouldn't have looked out of place in The Raid films. It's that amazing. It's the highlight of the film and nothing comes close to it sadly after. But you still get some action scenes, especially in the hotel. So it's not like the rest of the film suffers.
Hemsworth as I said was born to play the part. He also looks believeable as a badass action hero. But I did also like Golshifteh Farahani as Nik, his fellow cohort in action. I also like she's not made out to be this unstoppable warrior who beats up men twice her size. She gets the hell beat out of her but she's resourceful in her fights and wins out with her smarts. I'm glad they didn't kill her off. Idris Elba with a nice cameo too.
To be honest not everything is great. You could have cut out 20 minutes from the film especially at the start and it would have cut some fat from over 2hr film. None of secondary characters are that great and even poor Olga Kurylenko is wasted as Rake's ex wife. Also the villain isn't sadly memorable for me. Also some of effects aren't great.
But this is a top tier actioner and that prison break scene and stuff on the train is some of best action scenes ever. Hemsworth is great and he kicks ass in this. Must see for Action film fans.
Sweetheart (2021)
One of the more underrated Coming of Age British films out there
Marley Morrison's gem of a debut film Sweetheart, is that type of film sadly probably end up near the bottom of most streaming sites and probably go out of print on DVD or Blu-Ray over the next few years. Which is a damn shame cause it's a great coming of age film set on hoilday beach resorts in the UK.
It's not a film with the usual British character actors or has a major budget (to be fair, besides maybe durng the 80's disco scene near the end with it's soundtrack. You rarely feel the low budget). Even the cast is really only 10 people and three of them are only seen here and there.
The film is pretty much carried by. Nell Barlow as AJ (she won a award or two in the UK for her performance, well deserved too). In a lesser actress hands, AJ could be really dislikeable. But Barlow makes you care for AJ. She's definitely someone to keep a eye out for in the future.
Also the underused and always great Jo Hartley as AJ's mum almost steals the film from Barlow and is given a few nice scenes at the end. Sophia Di Martino as AJ's sister is probably the most well known to many for her role in Loki. But she's great. As is Samuel Anderson as AJ's brother in law and little. Tabitha Bryon as AJ's younger sister.
I also like AJ's love interest Isla (played nicely by. Ella-Rae Smith). The romance gets plenty of film's running time. And nice mix of romance and drama between them. Smith and Barlow have great chemistry. The film has the usual parent and misunderstood teen drama you expect from films like this. But it's done really well. Aslo it's nice that AJ's sexuality isn't a major point of the film, she's already out to her family before the film even begins.
The ending is a nice bittersweet one. I think the right ending to go with for this film.
I have to keep my eye out for Marley Morrison and Nell Barlow for the future. A shame the film didn't find a big audience as it was released mid way through the pandemic (it's only got 746 votes on IMDB). It's not a lost classic or anything but it's a better film then it's 6.6 rating on here.
Umimachi Diary (2015)
My Favourite Hirokazu Koreeda Film
I know Koreeda has much more lauded films like excellent Shoplifters, Like Father Like Son, Nobody Knows and Still Walking. But for me "Our Little Sister" is my favourite of his works, it's got a very good 7.5 rating on this side and has been well received by the critics. So It's not like it didn't get it's due when it was released. But it's put up there with his truly best work, which is a shame cause I think it's one of his greatest films.
Maybe cause it's pretty unassuming and warm hearted film, it doesn't have any real hard hitting moments or big time drama like most of works I mentioned above from Koreeda. Basic story is 3 sisters go to their estranged father's funeral, where they meet their half sister for the first time and straight take her into their family. There's no jealous, Bitterness, or step sister rebelling agaisnt the sisters. In fact they are overjoyed in having her around.
And it's breath of fresh air Koreeda made that choice, and it makes for way better film thanks to it. The four leading actresses are fantastic and you totally buy them as sisters. Haruka Ayase as the older motherly sister Sachi is great, who is holding everything together and takes young Suzu under her wing. Special praise goes to Masami Nagasawa as Yoshino, who plays the sister with a bit of issue with drink and man trouble. Kano.as Chika is really fun as the slacker sister.
But the film really is stolen by Suzu Hirose as Suzu, the young half sister of the films title. She's pretty much the heart and soul of the film, anytime she's on screen you can't, like her sisters, but care for her. I haven't seen Hirose in anything really else after this film. But she really is special in this film.
I can't really fault this film at all and that's why it got 10/10. Even when I watched it for first time on DVD, I rewatched it again straight away. Well worth checking out if you can. The Soundtrack too is great to this and suits the film's mood perfectly.
Undine (2020)
A heartfelt romantic fantasy drama
Christian Petzold is one of more reliable European Directors working in World Cinema. He's done well over nearly 30 years of work in Cinema and TV but it's only with 2012 Barbara with Nina Hoss, where a larger audience started to notice his work. Following that with his masterpiece Phoenix, again with Hoss in lead role. Then followed that with the very good Transit (2018) with the same two leads Paula Beer and Franz Rogowski that star in Undine.
While I don't think Undine is quite at the same level as Barbara, Phoenix or Transit. It still a wonderful little film. I can see why die hard fans of Petzold might not have liked it or why it's gotten a average 6.6 score on this site. Romantic films can be a required taste for some.
I do think the film isn't as strong once Paula Beer is gone from it. While Transit was Rogowski showcase and Beer took more of a backseat in that film. This is Beer's film all the way and she's the heart and soul of it. But both leads have great chemistry together and you totally buy into their romance, Rogowski really is great at playing male character's who wear their heart on their sleeves and been vulnerable. Such a great actor, and he's wonderful in this.
Beer is fantastic though as Undine, when we first see her when she's been dumped at the cafe by her married lover, well played by. Jacob Matschenz. One of the best scenes of a break up I've seen in a film. Even when she's on her job as a historian of Berlin, the way she does her job is great. I do like we see hints of her not been like any normal person and that she might be slightly different.
I would definitely recommend this film, it's only 1hr 28mins. Again It probably be lower tier Petzold for and I can totally understand why it's got a average rating. I think the two leads performances alone is the main reason to watch this.
Werk ohne Autor (2018)
A return to form for Henckel von Donnersmarck
After knocking out one of greatest German films for his debut with The Lives of Others (2006). And been swarmed with awards and plaudits for his work. Like most non American directors, one Hollywood comes knocking you jump at the chance to direct and we the massive let down that was The Tourist (2010).
It took nearly 8 years for Henckel von Donnersmarck to come back with Never Look Away and it was the return to form he badly needed. It doesn't come close to The Livers of Others, and I don't think he'll probably ever make a film as fantastic as that again. But his 2018 effort at least shows that he's not a one off Director either.
The film definitely warrants it's over 3 hour run time, don't let it turn you off watching this excellent drama. Set before WW II, during WWII and after in East and West Germany. Basically it's got two love stories running through it, one with our two main characters and the other with Art. And it does both so well.
The cast are all wonderful, especially Sebastian Koch as slimy ex Nazi doctor and father of Ellie, our main characters love interest. Special praise for Saskia Rosendahl in a small part as our main character's Kurt's tragic Aunt. She's only in pretty much the first part of the film but is fantastic in her performance.
The always wonderful Paula Beer as Ellie, is as radiant and amazing as ever. And she definitely bares all in a good portion of the film, and she's a lot closer to her characters age then her fellow lead is . I do think she kind of fades to the background a bit when Ellie and Kurt move to West Germany. As it becomes more about Kurt finding his own artistic style.
Tom Schilling as Kurt as a adult (three versions of the character played throughout the film) is great. I was shocked he was actually 36 when he played this part as I thought he would have been in his late 20's at best (they do mention it during the film a few times that he looks younger). And never once did I question that he looked too old.
I do think for me the film was at it's strongest during the first act and the third act. The second act was good with Kurt and Ellie's romance and the Professor trying to ruin their relationship. The first act with Kurt's aunt and his family and the third act based around his art and finding his own voice are when the film is at it's best.
The film didn't sweep the awards like The Lives of Other's did. But it won a few at Venice Film Festival and did get Best Foreign Film nods at Golden Globes and Oscars. And received favourable reviews and got a strong 7.7 on this site. It at least got Henckel von Donnersmarck back on track again and hopefully his next work will build on this film.
In den Gängen (2018)
A down to earth romantic comedy with a great Franz Rogowski performance
Been on a recent binge of the great Franz Rogowski films after seen him in the excellent Great Freedom (2021) recently. And while In The Aisles isn't quite at that level of film, it still is such really sweet, funny but also dramatic German rom-com.
Rogowski plays a ex con Christian, a quiet but kind young man with a load of tattoo's that show his past criminal life. You starts new job in Supermarket. He ends up with Bruno (excellent performance from Peter Kurth) in the drink section. But also ends up falling in love with Marion (Toni Erdmann's Sandra Huller) a married woman in a abusive loveless marriage.
The acting is great all round, even the smallest parts are memorable. Huller is really sweet and likeable in a slightly smaller and low key role. If you go in expecting the romance to be front and centre of the film you be disappointed. Huller does disappear for good parts of the film. Which makes the film even more impressive that romance between Christian and Marion is rather sweetly done. Kurth as Bruno, is great as well.
But this is Rogowski film all the way, and he doesn't say much at all. He's basically the German Joaquin Phoenix, not just cause both men have a Cleft Lip. He gives everything to his performances. The scene when he first meets his ex gang matches in the supermarket, that scene really shows his acting talent. Along with the scene at the Christmas work party with Marion.
Again it's a film that's way better then it's 6.9 rating here. I think it's strong film, maybe at 2 hours it's maybe 20 minutes too long, but you forgive the film that as it's got it's heart in the right place.
The Daughter (2015)
Strong Australian drama based on Ibsen Play
I do think this film from director Simon Stone (who went on to direct solid Netflix film The Dig, with Ralph Fiennes and Carey Mulligan) is a lot better then it's 6.6 rating on this site. Basically a modern reworking of Henrik Ibsen's play The Wild Duck transported to Australia.
It's well shot and written film, although it's a film that could have benefited been longer then it's 1hr 35min running time especially when it comes to the aftermath of Christian (Paul Schneider, really good here) revelation during the wedding which I feel is kind of rushed through (it only gets 25 minutes at most in the film) and the film slightly suffers from it. Which is a shame as film was really great up to that point.
Christian Nielsen, a recovering alcoholic, returns home to Australia from the United States for the wedding of his father, Henry, to his much younger housekeeper, Anna.
He finds out that Charlotte, Henry's previous housekeeper, and wife of his childhood friend, Oliver, had an affair with Henry, and that their teen-age daughter, Hedvig, is actually his half-sister. Christian's wife, who was supposed to also attend the wedding, instead dumps him by phone call. Christian, feeling miserable, begins drinking heavily again. At the wedding, hating Henry for how he treated his mother who committed suicide, Christian is compelled to tell Oliver about the affair.
Pretty much reading that you know it's not going to be a bright and happy film. But the film is worth it for it's casting alone as it's the main strength of the film's success for me. Sam Neill and Geoffrey Rush are both very good in this but Rush especially is in and out of the film for most of it's running time. The excellent Anna Trov (Mindhunter) is massively underused in this film. The underrated Miranda Otto, really gets to shine when the truth comes out about the affair. Ewen Leslie as Oliver almost steals the film to go from happy go lucky dad who loves his daughter and wife to his whole world falling down upon him when the truth comes out to his regret at the end.
But the film's highlight is Odessa Young as Hedvig (only character who keeps their name from Ibsen's play) and she deservingly won Best Actress at ACCTA award for this role (basically Australian Oscars). Odessa makes Hedvig a likeable teenager which isn't a easy job to do and makes what happens to her in the third act more heart breaking for it. I liked her relationship with her boyfriend too, and that she's the one pushing for things to go further rather then he is. No surprise she's gone onto Hollywood career after this and she was only 16 when she did this role too which makes i even more impressive.
I give the film a 7.3 rating. It would have got into a higher 7 if it didn't feel rush through the aftermath of the revelation of the affair and Henry been Hedvig's dad. I do think the 3rd act suffers for it. But a film well worth checking out.
Linda Linda Linda (2005)
A underrated rocking Coming of Age gem
Although not quite on the same level as another coming of age Japanese teen musical Swing Girls (2004), Linda Linda Linda still has that kooky charm and punk rock vibe that makes it worthwhile checking it out.
Nothing major happens, no big love drama or major fall outs in this film or bullies trying to stop them, and that's refreshing to say the least. For me this probably has the beautiful Bae Doona;s best performance to date (I might slightly give the nod to A Girl At My Door but this film runs it close). She steals the film, as the kooky exchange Korean student turn front woman, to think she was 26 at the time of this film and a bit older then the other three female leads but she makes you believe she's a teenage girl.
The other three members of the band are very good, especially Aki Maeda (Battle Royale) as the drummer. But none come close to topping Bae Doona. The ending has a bittersweet feel to it, as some else mentioned in their review that it's the last significant thing that they probably do. With shots of empty corridors and grounds of the school, it's kind of eerie in a strange way. Also big up the music of the Blue Hearts, you end up humming Linda, Linda for weeks after hearing it.
I did have some problems with it. I did have some trouble with the pacing and I felt a few scenes could have been trimmed to make a tighter film. But overall it's nit picking as this film has it's heart in the right place, plus Bae Doona stealing the show. Well worth checking out.
Suwingu gâruzu (2004)
A Comedic Masterpiece, with a Fantastic performace from Juri Ueno
Shinobu Yaguchi deliver's another comedic gem, which is probably his masterpiece. As much as I love Waterboys and Wood Job, I think Swing Girls just tops them both for just a joyous feel good comedy, something Hollywood should be looking at.
Every character is memorable, from the great Juri Ueno as the group's de facto leader, to Shihori Kanjiya as the popular girl, Yuika Motokariya as the quiet geeky girl, Yukari Toyoshima as the drummer trying to lose weight. Also a big shout out to Yuta Hiraoka as the token male Takuo, a fantastically loveable loser. Aside from Juri Ueno, its a shame none of the other cast member's have gone on to bigger things. As everyone delivers a top notch performance.
The comedy can range from the Spinal Tap to the Monty Python to Farrelly Brothers to even Richard Curtis. The film has a ton of heart, and has one of the greatest comedic scenes I've seen with the Forest scene with a boar Also the training montage and the two love sick Punk boyfriend's are other standout scenes. Plus anything involving Naoto Takenaka as a teacher hiding a secret is must see.
But the film is stolen by Juri Ueno as Tomoko. She was only 18 when she did this role, and she delivers a comedic masterclass. No wonder she went on to have a success career in Japan, it's a star making performance. I still think this is her greatest performance although she's done good work since.
Also the film gets a extra mark for the fact all the actresses and token guy learned how to play their instruments, go onto YouTube and you'll see footage of them playing Live on TV and at a one off gig. They aren't bad at all for the amount of time they had to train. Also the ending of the film will have you jumping for joy and leave you with a big smile.
On a side note: Could any DVD or blu ray companyplease give this fantastic film a Region 2 release. Such a shame this gem of a film isn't out there to buy for a decent price.
Niji no megami (2006)
Not a fan of Romantic films, but this film won me over
As the heading say's, not a fan of these type of films. But the fact I was coming of after watching Swing Girls (2004) with the beautiful Juri Ueno. If you haven't seen Swing Girls, do yourself a favour and go find a copy of the film, It's one of the most joyous coming of age musical comedies you'll see. Ueno is the standout in that film, and the actresses has the comedy chops to back it up. So Rainbow Song was next on the list.
As a few have said this is more realistic take on romance, then the stereotypical Hollywood or even Asian fluff you get with Romantic films. Sure I won't say it doesn't have it's moment of cheesiness but this film, a bit like The Notebook, gets away with it cause of it's tight script and fantastic performances.
This is Juri Ueno's film all the way, she isn't in the film that long surprisingly (she's not in the first 20 minutes or good portion of the third act) but she makes sure Aoi's is a memorable and loveable character, and I do think the film is at it's strongest when Juri's is front and centre. The scene at the speed dating and the following scene on the bridge, if that doesn't have the eyes a bit watery then I don't know what will.
Hayato Ichihara as Tomoyo more then holds his own, and delivers a fantastic performance. At times you want to slap him cause he can't see how much Aoi loves him, but you can't help but feel for the guy by the end. The ending for me is a gut punch, Tomoyo forever haunted by the girl he let go. It's a true tearjerker moment that isn't overdone.
Also great to see Yu Aoi on a small role as Aoi's younger blind Sister (even though in real life Yu is only two months younger then Juri) and she leaves her mark, I was slightly worried they were going to have her as the new love interest but they didn't go that route. Also a shout out for Shoko Aida as Tomoyo's older girlfriend. maybe it's just me I actually felt for her even though she lied.
It's not perfect, It's shot a bit like a TV Movie, I think the film drags a little by the end and I'm not a big fan of the ending, I think Tomoko deserves a better ending. But watch this for Juri's Ueno's fantastic performance, aided by a great support cast.