sjdsd Reviews

Woodlawn (2015)

Excellent story of brotherhood and faith

[10/10 · 27 February 2023]

This is one of the best, most uplifting and surprisingly poignant movies I have seen in recent years. The fact that I later read that this is a true story made it all the more extraordinary. The themes of forgiveness and faith are very moving, so much so that I found myself in tears on more than one occasion, which is unusual for me. It also addresses the racial discrimination and prejudice of the time with sensitivity and a strong sense of the harsh realities that the community was facing.

For a sports film, it has a very compelling storyline coupled with humour and plenty of football scenes for football fans.

Well worth a look!

Alarm (2008)

Thoroughly enjoyable

[8/10 · 1 January 2023]

This movie was a thoroughly enjoyable surprise. After seeing some of the low scoring reviews I was dubious about whether this would be worth a look. Well, I can gladly say that it is. The suspense builds nicely and ends well, those who felt the ending was bad clearly didn't think it through.

The characters are likeable and the plot is interesting, there's not too much to complain about.

I will say that because a lot of the action was filmed at night, it does tend to be a bit dark in places but it's not too bad.

The ending certainly was unexpected but it definitely all comes together in the end. Solid performances.

Ailsa (1994)

Slow, dark and uneventful

[1/10 · 29 December 2022]

Sadly, I can't find any redeeming features in this film. I generally enjoy Irish productions but this was boring, melancholy and aimless. I'm incredulous at the fact that it won and was nominated for awards. The main character is dreary, he speaks in a very low tone which is difficult to hear and understand. There is no explanation as to why the woman who is the object of his desire and obsession is so important to him. No character development whatsoever, which leaves the viewer constantly wondering why any of it is happening. An uninteresting beginning, mediocre middle and truly depressing ending. Absolutely not recommended.