Ancaster Film Fest 2011 Patrons' Comments
(Each of the menu items links to either general comments about the
FilmFest or comments concerning specific films screened during the 2010 season.)
Click here to view comments on films shown during previous seasons (2004-2009)
General Comments
First off, thank you again for another great year of films. I have and do attend a
few other film festivals but nobody else can pick the winners like you folks can.
Well done and thank you for all the hard work that you and your fellow volunteers put in.
I have been a member since the start and plan on never giving up my membership.
I have also enjoyed bringing my friends along and exposing them to your films. With much gratitude. David B.
Thanks for a wonderful season! David and Mary S.
Absolute Fav of this fall hands down Animal Kingdom and Winter's Bone. Need to bring in more films
like these. Gritty reality! The fall series I felt was much better than the spring series. Emily B.
It was a very successful year for everyone concerned, and all due in large part to you,
and the other volunteers’ hard work. Thank you!! Kathleen F.
Best in this year - Winter's Bone. Thank you for a great Year!! Julia M.
Once again my friend and I thoroughly enjoyed a season of quality, thought provoking
movies that truly represent a "slice of life". I wanted to take this
opportunity to thank you very much for sharing your passion for these
movies with the community of Hamilton/Ancaster as we have all benefited
from not only the enjoyment of these films but also the satisfaction of
giving back to the community through the charitable donations-
for this, we thank you very much Julian for all your hard work and dedication!
Take care and we look forward to another exciting season! Lynda S.
Thanks for another great viewing season!! Loved your selections. Anna I.
Thanks again for another great film season. Claudette S.
Thank-you again Julian for your very interesting pretalks...wow the research that
you do for us! Thank-you to all your team for making AFF happen. Looking forward to
the 1:00 start for the winter shows...yes I know I will probably have to be
there for 12:00 to get a seat ...just like the Opera...but now they have
gone ...assigned seating...theatre 6 if you want to use it for AFF. Thanks again! AFF is the BEST!!! Dorothy G.
Can I have two or three favourite films? Last Station / Secret In Their Eyes/ Winter's Bone
If not, make it Last Station. Many thanks for bringing us these grown up films,
enriching the experience with wonderful prefilm info, and taking such good care of
everyone's needs. A+ for communications too. Please thank the committee for us. Georgina H.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to view high quality films, and for
educating us prior to the movie. I have thoroughly enjoyed the AFF. Jennifer S.
Of all the films I've seen at the festival in 2010, my favourite was Micmacs a tire larigot.
I am looking forward to it's release on DVD and wanted to write a term paper on it for my
fourth year Theatre & Film course at McMaster. All of the films I viewed this year were
excellent and I look forward to another great season! :) Kathy Z.
Thanks for a wonderful, wonderful season. We look forward to 2011 and again
your excellent choices. You should all be commended for your hard work and reviews.
Absolutely love your introductions to each movie and the scenes, music we should
be looking for. Keep up the good work. Ralph M.
Congratulations on the selections you made. Mary F-H.
Julian and Team; thanks for a great season. By viewing your film choices, my son (also Barry)
has joined up. Have great Christmas time. See you next year. Barry S. Sr.
I missed a number of films this year due to other commitments but I enjoyed all
those that I saw. My favourite film of the year was a difficult choice between
Empties and Nowhere Boy but I will choose Nowhere Boy for the calibre of the acting
of the main stars. Thanks for bringing the AFF to us! Gerry F.
We look forward to our AFF days each month and think you do a great job of
introducing us to the films and who to remember and what
to watch for. Don't retire!.......Skip and BJ R.
We saw only 5 films this year, but they were all great. Many thanks, The G.'s
Another exciting and inspiring year with AFF. Every one of the films I’ve seen was spectacular,
and I’m looking forward to the next year. Sometimes too spectacular, so thank you for
adding more times to the schedule. Also, I am very willing and happy to
give my time anytime and proud to be affiliated with you and the AFF for making it happen.
I am sure you can appreciate how difficult it is to rate these films.
I will try to be coherent, intelligible, and open-minded...but all the films were great! Anna Maria D.
First, I'd like to thank you and all the volunteers of AFF for continuing to bring us
fabulous films -- while I get that you enjoy films yourself it is a whole other
thing to make these choices available to so many people. And to champion community
causes to boot is the real proverbial "icing". Your vision and commitment are much
appreciated. Without you and the team many of us would continues to languish in the
usual Cineplex offerings and plan trips to Mississauga and Toronto. Kathy S.
Thanks for all the great films. Bev B.
Unfortunately we started attending at the end of the season but the 2 movies we saw were fantastic.
Looking forward to the new season. Hilton & Shirley S.
Overall selections are good. Well worth being a member. Les G.
Finally got a membership this month, so missed the other films. Loved The Father of my Children.
Thanks for your great efforts on our behalf. Liked the 1 o'clock showing. Lynda K.
Great selection. I'm looking forward to new season. Thank you, volunteers, for your amazing results.
Anon.
Thank you for showing these great movies. Saroj S.
Your committee does an excellent job. Even though we may not be enthralled
with all the choices, the films are always well acted, thought provoking.
A treat to get away from the Hollywood dribble! Thanks. Cathy C.
Enjoy the film fest series. Carolyn B.
Your film picks are so wonderful. Also, your pre screening talks are so informative.
I sure am glad to be an AFF member. Thanks again for all your hard work. Much appreciated. Dee M.
This is a good questionnaire format. Thank you! As a newcomer to Hamilton,
I greatly appreciate this series (and the AGH series & Festival). Thank
you for all your hard work - as a member of the Calgary Film Festival
selection committee for many years, I appreciate what is involved. Anon.
Thank you for the AFF. I see films I would never otherwise take a second glance at & there has never been a
film that I've seen that I haven't felt was worthwhile investment in my time. Anon.
The films I have seen have been very good. Unfortunately I missed several over
the last few months. Thanks for the great selection. Mary M.
I love coming and seeing new and interesting films. The feedback process is excellent. Mia W.
I'm sorry I wasn't able to see more movies over the past six months. Ann P.
Looking forward to this season's collection. Fran D.
Keep up the great work! I always look forward to your selections and borrowing from your fabulous library. Anon.
EMPTIES
Enjoyed the character very much. Judy B.
Lots of humour – Light but a good story. Jean B.
I wasn't sure what the title would signify, but when viewed the counterpoint
between the physical empties to be collected, and the empty lives that
were shown made this quite a poignant story. Elizabeth E.
A wonderful story well told. Betty B.
A charming film. Warren B.
A lovely film. Terri T.
Empties gave you food for thought. Mary M.
Wonderful character/relationship study. Kathy C.
A beautifully made film, gentle characters, good story, a simple slice of life. This
movie was a pleasure to watch. Also enjoyed Kolya, another film with Zdenek
Sverak and want to see The Elementary School. Marlene C.
Very funny. Lynne P.
This was a fun, clever film though a bit slow and winding at times...good acting
and easy to identify with some of the characters and with some enjoyable twists
and turns and revelations as the truth about who is related to who surfaces.
An unexpected and fun ending. Joanne H.
Loved the story line when he leaves his flat and takes a job in the bottle exchange at the
supermarket. Audrey M.
A most enjoyable film; loved the plot twists; the acting and the visuals. Gerry F.
A moving portrayal of one resisting being cast aside in older age. Carl B.
A lovely film. Terri Ann T.
Loved this movie Eileen H.
A great story, a little slow. Nancy H.
Just a lovely film. Lynn F.
Very touching and entertaining. Everyone has a reason for being the way
they are! Acting was great. Betty Z.
ME AND ORSON WELLES
A bit interesting, but redeemed by the fact the lead man really
looked like Orson. Judy B.
An actors film indeed - flawless performances. Alison N.
Believable story about a huge ego. Betty B.
Very informative about the life of those people. Mary M.
Well done. Kathy C.
An outstanding portrayal of a bigger-than-life Welles fleshed out by the brilliant
Christian McKay. Marlene C.
Tonight's movie was THE BEST EVER !!!!!! And your blurbs at the beginning enrich
the whole experience SO MUCH. Can't express how amazing that movie was.
Thanks once again. You are outdoing yourself every time. You also must be
saying "What can I do to top this?" Maureen M.
Zac Efron suprisingly good. Lynne P..
I was not familiar with the life of Orson Welles, so this was a good depiction, it seems,
though I would could not attest to its total accuracy. It did portray very well,
I thought, how eccentricity and creativity very often go hand-in-hand and how
being ostracized by a group that one is a part of, such as the theatre,
can bring out both the 'best' and the 'worst' in people. Joanne H.
Excellent acting......great rollercoaster week leading up to Opening Night and behind the
scenes adventures. Audrey M.
Enjoyed the film very much; an interesting story line; very well acted. Gerry F.
We loved the acting of Christian McKay and Claire Danes. Carl and Dorothy B.
Didn't live up to the hype. Not a big Orson Welles fan. Eileen H.
A very enlightening view point. Nancy H.
A little drawn out. Patti W.
Disturbing to find out how callous Orson was. But, because he was such a genius, I guess
people made concessions all the time for him. The acting was very good,
particularly by Zach (he's a teenage heartthrob, but I was surprised and
impressed by his acting). Thought the fellow that played
Orson overacted a little. Betty Z.
AN EDUCATION
Honest reflection of an age of innocence - great performances. Alison N.
Tops in my book. Betty B.
Great acting, dead-on costumes, good story. Deb. G.
An Education was one of the best films I have seen this year,
both of the main actors were fantastic, I have bought the memoirs of the woman
on whom it was based and plan to enjoy that this summer. Terri T.
Excellent film, - wonderful acting, great coming of age film. Marlene C.
I loved it. Lynne P.
I actually was not really looking forward to this film when I heard about the
subject, so I was wonderfully surprised at how much I enjoyed it and was
moved by it. A very, very well acted portrayal by all of the main characters
of what can happen when innocence and deception collide and how everyone
involved- the school girl, her parents, and the married suitor are forced
to step back and look at themselves differently. Wisdom hard won by
Jenny (Carey mulligan) who did a stellar job of playing/being the school girl. Joanne H.
Interesting twist as Jenny goes along with the older man. Audrey M.
Very well done; an "educational" film that was very well acted. Gerry F.
Great picture in spite of the continuity glitches. Mary W.
Biased as I grew up in England at that time and could relive a lot of the
lifestyle, treatment of girls/women, etc. Loved this movie. Eileen H.
Somewhat disturbing; yet innocence from two different perspectives. Nancy H.
Not what I was expecting but very well done. Patti W.
Cast was great and Carrie was very sweet and believable in this role.
Lagged a bit at times, but the plot was good. Betty Z.
THE YOUNG VICTORIA
The whole movie was beautiful: love story; clothes and setting as well as music. Judy B.
"The Young Victoria" again a very different aspect of a life that
has been presented over and over... mostly as the Widow of Windsor, and a crotchety old dame.
The actors, the scenery were all presented in majestic style, and after seeing
this you could understand the grief of a widow who lost her love too soon.
It also presented how the machinations of government can curtail the power
and wishes of a reigning monarch. Elizabeth E.
Very attractive visually. (Too bad Sarah didn't get 'enough'
from her investment!) Betty B.
Great. Terri T.
Beautiful movie. Kathy C.
Interesting plot. Marlene C.
Very grand. Lynne P.
I loved this movie and was one of many in the audience that was sorely
disappointed when it ended. I was not familiar with Queen Victoria's
early life so was well educated regarding the trials she endured
and the strength of character, and pride, she had even as a child
and a young woman. I loved the movie CRAZY, and found it
inspiring that 'our' French Canadian director so beautifully
captured the essence of the young Victoria and the young Albert
from a land far away. It is definitely worth seeing on the big
screen for the costumes alone and well deserved the academy award
it won in that category. The little talk given before we saw
the movie was most informative and helpful re watching for significant
details, as they always are! Joanne H.
Enjoyed the royal power struggle. Audrey M.
Enjoyed this film very much too; I just watched "The Queen" on TV and
found them both an interesting view of a monarchy; very
well acted. Gerry F.
Too bad it stopped so early in her life, even if it was
called “The Young Victoria”. Mary W.
The Young Victoria was great. Terri Ann T.
Enjoyed this one too, a change from the dour faced old lady we are
usually presented with. Eileen H.
A fun film in many ways. Nancy H.
A very beautiful film. Lynn F.
Loved every minute of it. The acting, the cinematography the costumeS were spectacular. Patti W.
Costumes were great as was the acting. It was nice to see that Victoria
was not as harsh as she appeared in real life and again - there is a
reason for being the way you are. It was touching to see the love that
she had for Albert. Betty Z.
THE LAST STATION
Outstanding acting of all characters. Marlene C.
Terrific acting. I had known little about his life prior to seeing the film. Kay S.
The Orson Welles and Tolstoy movies were very informative about the life of those
people. Empties gave you food for thought. Helen M.
Very interesting especially since I am going to Russia tomorrow. Judy B.
Stellar acting, Story was a bit slow. Jean B.
Very informative about the life of those people. Mary M.
"The Last Station" was an epic on the broad scale, and a fascinating
look into the life of a man who is so often quoted. You gave us a look
into a world that was so different. The actors were magnificent, and the
wife made to appear so antagonistic but it was obvious there was a
great love story there too. Elizabeth E.
Enjoyed it. Betty B.
The acting in the last station was excellent, thus a 10. Terri M.
Superb acting and cinematography, great historical story of love,
philosophy and life. Deb G.
Loved it. Kathy C.
The acting was magnificent...you could feel how tired Tolstoy was,
always trying to hold to his ideals and also please his wife or at least
consider her views. Helen Mirren was very dramatic as the bi-polar Sofya
who truly loved her husband but did not agree with his views at all.
In the end, as it said in the credits, she was rewarded the rights to
her husbands work, contrary to the wishes stated in his will.
A good view of how a 'both/and solution' might have been better
for everyone (the state to have his work and Sophya to maintain
her lifestyle) rather than the 'either/or' one, which was what
inspired so much of Sophya's extreme behaviour and the desperate
final act of Tolstoy in leaving her. A story of desperation and
redemption, strength and craziness, kindness and
cruelty and finally peace. Joanne H.
Christopher Plummer and Helen Mirren are two of my all time favourite
actors........wonderful movie. Audrey M.
Great performances by Plummer and Mirren. Mary W.
Terrific acting and a wonderful evocation of a sense of Russian
society and countryside. Carl B.
Interesting - great acting. Eileen H.
An interesting look at a complicated man. Nancy H.
Very well done. Lynn F.
Helen Mirren and Christopher Plummer are classic and classy!
I love to learn some history in a film. Costumes were great.
This movie didn't disappoint. The other standout actor was Paul
Giamatti who really made you dislike him - great actor. Betty Z.
A PROPHET
Very disturbing but beautifully crafted. Your preamble helped to focus my
attention of certain details, in particular the growth of the character and
his resemblance to “The Godfather”. Kay S.
Very gritty, but worth it - sadly a slice of life that really does exist!! Judy B.
Raw portrayal of power and survival - "Godfather" in prison very
intense - "Fortune and Men's Eyes" another great prison movie based on a play. Alison N.
Another with great acting performances – Strong message. Jean B.
Good movie but I didn’t really enjoy it – Violence was strong
but OK, I found the story a little confusing. Jean B.
Very realistic, great acting, but what point were they trying to make? Deb Goodman
The worst film ever shown by AFF -- I worked in the prison system
for 25 years -- this film was absolutely apocryphal -- total fiction,
I was laughing all the way through it -- complete fiction. Did I mention
the worst film ever shown by AFF. However, this is the best season you have
ever had. I just don't know how you do it. You set the bar high and
then the next year you jump over it again. You guys are amazing.
I will forgive you The Prophet. And you are starting off with a
bang in August. I cannot thank you all enough for the hard
work you do. Warren B.
I went to see it for the second time at the Westdale theatre because it was
so stunningly creative. Susan B.
The Prophet- one of the worst films I have ever seen.
Put me off coming. Vivienne M.
If I ever go to prison, may it be in France. Baguettes, salad and wine!
Loved the movie, one to really get your teeth into and engage your sense
of living on the edge. Convoluted, yes, as it would be to experience that
life. Satisfying film!!!! Thanks. Maureen M.
For a lad who can't read or write, he does a great job as he figures out
the politics of the prison system. Audrey M.
Grisly, realistic, great performances but I was disturbed by the lack
of humanity in any of the characters. Mary W.
There was certainly a gritty and harsh realism, but at the same time
we found a reasonable degree of plausibility stretched. Carl B.
A little too violent for us but acknowledge how well it was done. Bob and Ginny G.
Not crazy about the content but interesting look at prison life. Eileen H.
An eye opening, real drama, unlike the Hollywood versions of "reality". Nancy H.
Thanks for bringing in a film like this. I never would have chosen it
and even though I was exhausted when it was finished I'm glad I saw it. Lynn F.
Dark but realistic. Patti W.
I was really afraid to watch this movie after hearing some of the
comments about violence. But I did not doze off once. I was going to
close my eyes for the bad bits, but found I could not take my eyes away.
I was spellbound. The acting was superb and the dinginess of the prison
made you feel like you were there. It was a really powerful film. I never
would have gone to see this film, so glad you had the courage to show it.
Well done for taking people out of their comfort level! Betty Z.
THE MESSENGER
A very timely piece. Kay S.
What a statement re a soldier and his worth at the end of his tours -
hard to believe it is so cold. Judy B.
Another with great acting performances – Strong message. Jean B.
Well done. Betty B.
Wonderful acting by Woody Harrelson. Deb G.
Woody Harrelson deserved his Oscar nod. Terri T.
Amazing portrayal of people doing a very difficult job. Great acting. Marlene C.
15 minutes into the movie I thought I have never seen anything so "not a chick flick"
and so honestly male, male! So American male. Astonishing that an Israeli and an
Italian see it so clearly. Wish the Americans did! Amazing writing. Best anti war
film I've seen with out a message. Just the truth. Enjoyed it so much. Please don't
ever let any negative criticism stop you for a minute. You balance the really hard
to watch so well with other excellent movies. The variety and pace is right on and
we would NEVER get to see these unbelievably good movies if you weren't so
courageous. Samantha Morton was something else. Looked her up. Quite the woman!
They were all so VERY REAL. Thanks. Maureen M.
An intense, extremely well acted movie that felt sickeningly authentic.
It was both a very sad and disturbing commentary on the state of the
consciousness of humanity and also on the resilience of the human
spirit and the power of hope. Is there even one plausible explanation
for war? I don't believe so. I have heard it said that the masculine
energy is geared toward what is worth dying for and the feminine energy
toward what is worth living for. Since we all have both masculine and
feminine energies, we are all party to war like behaviours and also to
compassion. I hope it is true that we are moving from being the human
race to the humane race, and the sooner the better. Joanne H.
Excellent acting and Ben Foster should have been nominated too. Audrey M.
Once again, great performances; what a tough job those soldiers have. Mary W.
Woody Harrelson deserved his Oscar nod. Terri Ann T.
The other side of war we don't hear about too often. Eileen H.
A heartfelt view into a forgotten aspect of war. Nancy H.
Enjoyed it. Lynn F.
Woody Harrelson was phenomenal in this movie. Patti W.
MICMACS
Not a style that I particularly enjoy, but once I settled into it, its
off-the-wall comedy was great entertainment. Kay S.
I certainly enjoyed the comedy on Monday. Helen M.
Lots of fun, but what a message. Judy B.
So charming, a delight "The Sting" meets the Cirque du soleil - Pan's
Labyrinth was also a film I enjoyed of this genre, Allison N.
We really enjoyed last night's showing. Great acting, great humour.
We find most North American humour tries to be funny at someone’s
expense, not what we would consider funny. Peter H.
Very different movie; wasn't sure when it started but it was one of the
best movies I've seen in awhile; very different but good, Sue H.
My favourite – Very quirky, funny & most enjoyable. Jean B.
Thank you, thank you for winding up this part of the season with a
"hearts delight", delicious story. The filming of this story was amazing,
the actors all so convincing, the power to overcome all odds so satisfying.
Simply great. Elizabeth E.
A great romp. Betty B.
My kind of comedy. Terri M.
Delightfully wacky and funny, incredibly creative. Deb G.
I find it difficult to laugh at parodies on violence: the scene with the
Bourkas and images of armless maimed children terminated my interest in
the film as "a comedic entertainment". Susan B.
Movie is quirky, charming and fantastic until after the hero is introduced
to the denizens of Tire-Larigot (a fabulous scene), but then suffers
from being an implausible version of “Mission Impossible”, although
there are a few truly funny scenes in the latter part of the movie.
A film of uneven quality, but fine acting. Jim M.
Loved the humour, the quirkiness of the characters and the non-violent
revenge that was satisfying and appropriate. Bravo! Marlene C.
Aren't the French just too, too clever for words? What a terrific ending
to an amazing season !!!! Am so glad you are contributing to Fieldcote.
I know they struggle for money (all the rain last year!) and the concerts
are a charming contribution to community living, not as much as AFF, of
course, LOL, but very good. Hope you have a wonderful summer. See you
next season. Thanks muchly. Maureen M.
Funny & enjoyable. Lynne P.
What a wonderful, fanciful, imaginative and thoroughly enjoyable film.
There is something about the French psyche and view of life that it can
so cleverly and humorously address so serious a subject in such an
engaging way. It was intriguing to see what could possibly happen
next with all the strange antics going on and how a supportive group
of society's 'misfits' could pull off such a wonderful ruse with
a very profound message and impact. A great little film about how
thinking and behaving outside the box can be so inspirational
and 'awe-musing' . Just loved the contortionist and her comment
about still being a sensitive soul even though she was hyper-flexible
physically (in response to being called 'twisted'). Joanne H.
I never cease to marvel how some minds work....what a fun way to head into summer. Audrey M.
Wonderful!!! Loved it! Hope L.
A very "quirky" film; I would love to see it again; not the best film
I've seen but most enjoyable to watch; great story line; well presented. Gerry F.
This fantastic caper is wonderfully entertaining and at the same
time makes us think about greed and hypocrisy in our western society,
while not pretending to plausibility. Carl B.
We have recommended this to everyone we know!! Bob and Ginny G.
Crazy - not sure at first - but liked it more as the movie went on. Eileen H.
Such a quirky film. Thought about it the next day and would really like to see it again. Lynn F.
A great way to finish the season Quirky and hilarious. Patti W.
Not one of my favourites. Pretty quirky, but there were some comical highlights. Betty Z.
THE SECRET IN THEIR EYES
A big 10, absolutely fantastic film, the best film you played all year. My vote for favourite film of the year. David B.
Kept my interest from start to finish...........thought
I had it figured out before the twist in the movie. Dorothy G.
Really enjoyed the drama. The time issues were a bit confusing. Marlene C.
Good story, complex and subtle, but primarily for the actors who were excellent. Bob L.
Wonderful film, great acting and a great story. John G.
The Secret in Their Eyes was my favourite film for 2010
as well as one of the best of all the films shown by the AFF.
Thanks for choosing such fascinating films. Deb G.
One of my all-time favourite movies. Mark T.
It was an amazing movie. It was the first time we have attended and we shall be regulars from now on. Shirley and Hilton S.
Some movies are like really delicious meals with a superior glass of wine -where
every bite and sip is so enjoyable that you have to remind yourself to breathe and
when you come to that very last bite of dessert one can only put their head down
on the table and cry a bit and wait to start breathing normally again. Maureen M.
This is not a movie I'd typically choose, but it surprised me; I really enjoyed it. Mary G.
Moving, compelling, beautifully filmed and acted. Mardie P.
The story bogged down at times. Les G.
Great plot, Captivating acting and very vivid drama. James M.
Moving, authentic. Anon.
Completely engrossing story. Brenda H.
Interesting that such a tough guy should have a well hidden soft interior. I was glad
the 2 lead characters finally got together. Judy B.
Powerful film with an excellent script. Anon.
Excellent film. Carolyn B.
I love movies that make you think and surprise you; this had great twists and turns. Lise G.
Outstanding story. Carol T.
Absolutely fantastic film, one of the best AFF has ever shown. Anon.
Best AFF film I've seen to date. Sensuous love story; fabulous acting. Dee M.
This movie was okay. Gay P.
Very good film. Alan D.
Great film--loved the ending. Anon
Excellent film. Ron N.
I have told everyone to rent this. Excellent Film. Mia W.
Great movie.....totally engaging. Hope L.
Powerful drama. Jim M.
MOTHER AND CHILD
Another great film, I saw it a TIFF last year and thought it was a great story with
fantastic performances, especially Naomi Watts. David B.
Story little contrived but again good actors. Bob L.
Excellent performances. Margaret T.
I loved this movie a great deal. I could relate with it as a woman, and understand
the sadness and struggles of womanhood, setbacks, and disappointment. I
loved Annette Benning in this, but loved the young actress who played her
daughter even more...she was excellent, believable and a good actor.
It was modern, realistic, and poignant. There were a lot of strong emotions
of anger, resentment, and hate which comes with a fine line to love.
Hurt can be a powerful source for women. Loved it, but was too sad. Anna Maria D.
I would rate this film as a "6". While I was watching it I was quite involved and enjoyed the acting
very much. My doubts arose while I was driving home. I thought that the way the personalities
of the two main actresses changed so dramatically, in such a short time, was not realistic.
Karen changed from a "weirdo, bitchy women" into a caring wife too quickly. The change
in Elizabeth from an extremely selfish career woman to someone who was willing
to work as a secretary, for a woman of all things, all for the sake of an out-of-wedlock
baby really stretched the imagination. The acting was excellent, the story line just
too unbelievable. Ralf G.
I thought the movie was well cast. Mary G.
Solid acting, emotionally wrenching. Mardie P.
Overall well presented and acted. Les G.
Very convoluted. James M.
Although the sexual scenes were a bit over the top, this movie
illustrated the need for society to accept pregnancy outside of
marriage, or unwanted, as a gift rather than a blight. Judy B.
Beautiful acting. Anon.
Loved the 'six degrees of separation' that is demonstrated in this film. Lise G.
A sad story but a very real one for many people. Mary F-H.
Intense film, great acting, intriguing characters. Anon.
Storyline hit a little close to home though...a real tear jerker. Dee M.
I enjoyed this movie. Gay P.
Very good film. Alan D.
Very moving although the ending was a bit sentimental. Anon.
SOUL KITCHEN
I know that it was well received and seems to be a critic’s choice but at best I thought it was okay.
Comedy is tough and this one could only coax a few smiles from me. David B.
Good balance.....not all hard times.........some comedy. Dorothy G.
Enjoyable, some good laughs, but not great. Bob L.
Delightful comedy. John G.
Enjoyed the music and the cinematography very much; enjoyable story but predictable in some ways. Gerry F.
The script was only a 7 but the Director did a great job getting the intent across. Mike W.
I enjoyed this film, it was fun, and humorous, I enjoyed the light heartedness surrounding good food,
social interaction, friends and family. It made me long for a social spot where people could mingle,
be themselves and comfortable...a place good for your "soul". I enjoyed the story line,
but would get frustrated with the main character...It seemed he created his own problems...so
much focus on him, and less on the restaurant. Maybe that's what the writers where trying to
express...everyone needs a "safe haven". I loved it, but the German language was
difficult to personally warm up to. Anna Maria D.
You are a really brave man to bring Soul Kitchen to this audience. I'm dying to know the feedback.
Although it was not my favourite movie I liked it because I like the bizarre, off the wall humour,
particularly if it has another culture thrown in for interest. The sweet little old lady
beside me rolled with the punches and we discussed the warm, welcoming atmosphere that
you and your team have created, with the scrupulous attention to detail that ALWAYS
makes it such a pleasant evening. Thanks and keep pushing the envelope! Maureen M.
Loved "Soul kitchen" in fact I really, really like European films because like this one they tend
to portray real people who act like 'real' people and not some glamorized, plastic vision of
what we might be like in a dream. The whole aphrodisiac scene which drew gasps from
some people this afternoon was wonderful cuz that's just like people would
be in that kind of situation!!!! Chris F.
Very entertaining. Les G.
A feel good, funny sitcom type movie. James M.
Different, dynamic. Anon.
A good fun story. Judy B.
Enjoyable cinematography. Anon.
Very enjoyable film. Carolyn B.
Loved how this movie depicted how it doesn't matter how bad things seem,
tomorrow is another day, anything can happen just depends how bad you want it. Lise G.
Did not like the humour. Least satisfying film for me ever at AFF. Carol T.
Okay, just okay. Anon.
I found this movie to be funny and touching at the same time. Gay P.
The only disappointment in the series - just didn't work for me. Alan D.
Funny. Linda K.
Liked the scenes and music and general theme. Elizabeth R.
Good, funny and rewarding. Anon.
Good film, a little too zany for me. Ron N.
The characters were interesting. The plot was good but not riveting. Carol C.
Very exciting and enjoyable; loved the characters. Hope L.
Whacky, wonderful, entertaining. Anon.
NOWHERE BOY
Good film, lead actor did very well. I wasn't a huge Beatles fan but still found it very interesting
and well worth seeing. David B.
Mother and aunt were superb. Did not know the story of Lennon’s youth and it was well told. Bob L.
Great acting by all, particularly the women; much that I didn't know about John Lennon. Gerry F.
I really loved this film, and am reluctant to call this my favourite of the year,
since a lot of other people enjoyed it too, and it's about the iconic John Lennon.
But, after a great deal of thought, I need to agree with others
who saw this film. It was unique, with great acting all round from Duff, Thomas, to the young main actor.
Well done, indeed old boy... It was a wonderful story...honest, simple and memorable,
just like John Lennon was...Excellent acting...powerful, inspiring and beautiful...loved it.
It resounds in my mind...difficult to forget this film. Anna Maria D.
I thought this was excellent in the storyline, setting and especially the casting.
I have read some of his biographies and I was glad to see the
depiction of his aunt in this story as she played such a big part in his life. Mary G.
Made me look differently at lyrics in Lennon's songs. Mardie P.
Good story - had trouble picturing the lead as John. Les G.
Memorable, original. Anon.
Fascinating view of how John Lennon ticked. Carrie M.
Couldn’t get the story off my mind for at least 3 days. Definitely want to see it again. Mary F-H.
Gave me some positive insight into the life of John Lennon-I have highly recommended this movie to my friends
and family. Mary P.
Very interesting look into the early years of John Lennon. Anon.
Interesting to revisit that time period. Never thought of John as a "teddy boy b4 he
became a Beatle. Good acting". Dee M.
Good performances but not really memorable. Alan D.
Very engaging, became absorbed in the life of John L. Elizabeth R.
I felt a strong emotional attachment to this film because I was a teenager when the
Beatles became popular. The acting was excellent. Ann P.
A wonderful movie!. A lot of new info learned re Lennon. Hope L.
Well done, touching, excellent portrayals. Anon.
TAMARA DREWE
It was an amusing film and did unfold nicely. David B.
Really enjoyed this comedy - well paced (rollicking, despite the surprise result neat the end)
especially liked the characters of the two girls. Generous helpings of poetic
justice make it both funny and satisfying. Margaret T.
An enjoyable film but it reflects its graphic story roots - cartoon-like plot and acting in spots
but entertaining. Gerry F.
Tamara Drewe - replica of Under Tuscan Sun (reno theme): not gloomy
enough to be real Hardy. Anon.
Loved, loved, loved this film for its moxy, ingenious script, the acting, the
twist and turns. Lise G.
Cute, funny, sad with a large cast of different characters. Anon.
I really enjoyed this movie. As in Soul Kitchen, I found it to be both funny and touching. Gay P.
Worth seeing but not Frears' best. Alan D.
Very funny. Linda K.
Stylish. Entertaining. Elizabeth R.
Scenery was great and the plot amusing. Anon.
I loved this movie. Anon.
PLEASE GIVE
Good story, well told. David B.
I saw this movie during the AGH, and was really impressed with the quality and
value of this film. I loved Keener, and this role seemed to fit her perfectly...gentle,
kind and understanding. I also loved the other actors,
right down to her snotty daughter. It was a great, modern and realistic...showing
old-fashioned ideas like philanthropy dying and be replaced with commercialism,
impersonal technology, money, wealth or status. It was a sad commentary
of the times... loved it, but found it a little boring, and a subject already explored many times. Anna Maria D.
Interesting film, characters and story. Anon.
A surprisingly moving film - very good choice. Alan D.
ANIMAL KINGDOM
I recognize that it was a good film but a little grittier then I like. David B.
Very intense. Dorothy G.
This film blew me away - again the acting was excellent - gritty, scary, tense. Margaret T.
Another intense gritty film. Well done. Anon.
WINTER'S BONE
Another good one: the setting and acting were powerful - although the setting of Missouri is
recognizable as American, at the same time it seems like we're looking into
another world and another time. What a heroine. Margaret T.
A "very tough" 8,,, like the Boy in the Striped Pyjamas. Mike W.
This was another film I caught during the AGH, and even though some thought it boring
or dragged out, I liked this film. It wasn't a pleasant film, but it was refreshing,
and revealed a part of America I never knew...A different culture, that existed
and maybe still does, which I thought was interesting. These
people are ignorant, and raised in an environment of poverty, drugs,
violence with strong family ties...similar to the Italian mafia, but
in the south. It was like the Godfather meets the Beverley Hillbillies...It
captured my attention, and I was hooked. I enjoyed it for it's uniqueness,
cinematography, and quality. I didn't see a lot of films during the AGH festival,
but would rate this one an 8. It reached out and hooked me
in. (aaaahhh.....an arm!) Anna Maria D.
Interesting film techniques; very hard to relate to. Arlene C.
Gritty, but a study in character strength. The young girl’s acceptance of her mother's mental
illness and her responsible behaviour was inspiration. Judy B.
Unforgettable. Carol T.
Couldn't get into it. Anon.
Memorable. Atmospheric. Chilling. Fran D.
FATHER OF MY CHILDREN
Very French. Had me contemplating the meaning for days. I think the abrupt end mirrored his
unexpected suicide. James M.
Technique of shooting the film using close-ups of main actors gave the feel of walking in his
footsteps and dealing with his problems - exhausting experience. Quality
acting by parents and children. Situation felt so real. Children so involved
and not shielded. Could have been shorter. Music choices interesting:
"Classical Greensleeves" "Que sera sera" unusual choice for ending but
realistic and suggests another transition in the lives of the family. Mardie P.
Great acting, amazing sensitivity from such a young director. Lynda K.
Although I found the movie to be somewhat depressing, I thought it was well done
and believable - a loving father pushed to the edge due to financial stress.
The acting was excellent, especially that of the daughters and it was shot in
my favourite city - Paris, so that was worth getting glimpses of too! Nancy H.
Just saw Father of My Children and really wasn't that keen on it. Sue H.
Father of my Children had some promise, but the storyline didn't flow well with many
disconnected or useless sequences (the older daughter at the other film viewing ).
The director missed the opportunities to develop the relationship between husband
and wife and really missed the mark on the older daughter and mother coming to
terms with the unknown brother. The music was excellent except the choice of
the final score. The o well, life goes on, who cares theme of the last song
just about summed up my attitude towards these characters. At least the out
of the cold program was a big winner. However, the AFF films overall have
been very good with a wide variety of themes. Can't be batting 1000
year after year. Keep up the great work. John G.
Very depressing although the child actresses were fantastic. Brenda H.
In spite of being a shame that such a clever and creative person died, this
film met head on the subject of suicide. This topic, along with mental
illness, is not a subject that N. Americans talk about with ease.
The film gives the impression that suicide is not a shameful
happening in a family. I thought the children’s' attitude to
their dad's death was like their attitude to him while alive -
loving and accepting. A bit sad at first, but later insightful
in retrospect. Judy B.
A real yawny. I think I mentioned to you that I fell asleep. Carrie M.
Actors wonderful, especially children, but too slow, disjointed. Well
scripted as it resists all temptations to turn maudlin. Anon.
Well done film, but it left me feeling unsatisfied. Carolyn B.
It was a bit slow. Anon.
Acting was great, I felt the script was weak, felt like I was waiting for
the meat of the movie to start and it never did. Lise G.
Very easy to make a movie about life's tragedies and failings-but not easy to make an uplifting
movie. Mary P.
Very interesting look at family and grief, we had lots to discuss after
particularly choices made by the director. Carol T.
Sad film, okay story, didn't like the end. Anon.
I found it difficult to feel any emotion for the characters other than the children. It just didn't
draw me in. Gay P.
The acting, especially that of the children was exceptional, but the story line,
or lack of one and the many loose ends made the film unsatisfying. Anon.
I nearly went to TIFF Lighthouse just to see this - a very good film. Alan D.
I enjoyed it & was never bored but I kept wondering what the point was and where I was
supposed to be going. And maybe that's the point. Anon.
Difficult to follow. Linda K.
I thought this was a fabulous film - very enjoyable and very typically
French. Audrey R.
This was absolutely a wonderful choice ... a marvellous film in the tradition of
marvellous French films of yesteryear. The yawns must have come
from the slow pace that is pretty typical of European films;
and the 'thumbs down', from people who are not conscious of
the formal aspects of film-making but who see only the characters
and plot unfolding on screen and, perhaps, are looking for a
'feel-good' experience. I found the script, cinematography;
sound track and subtlety of direction were excellent. The
acting was, quite simply, superb. Altogether, an elevating
experience - cannot thank you enough for this and all your
efforts to bring us these splendid films. Marilyn B-O.
The scenery and acting was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it.
Because of the English subtitles I really had to focus. For
me personally it was a great movie. Anon.
Couldn't figure out what the film was really about, but had some great scenes. Ron N.
The characters and camera work were very good but the plot was weak and did not
hold my attention. Carol C.
It was predictable. Mia W.
The story lost momentum after Gregoire's death. Ann P.
I'm still trying to figure out what the papers were that he burned just before shooting
himself. Mary W.
I was just too tired that day and the movie often hurt my eyes - made it difficult to keep my eyes open. Great
portrayal of children, film drags and seems disjointed at times. Anon.
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