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Reel Speak
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 2011 season.)
Click here to view comments on films shown during previous seasons (2004-2010)
General Comments
Thank you for all your wonderful movies. Always a film that I would
have missed due to publicity Keep up the wonderful work. Can hardly
wait for next year’s line up. Norma S.
Congrats on providing us with this wonderful array of film. Beverly B.
A great selection of films this season! Michelle S.
Julian, keep up the great work. Love how and what you provide for our
community. Thank you. Anna I.
You're doing a terrific job. Thanks. Linda H.
I enjoy going to the film fest and thanks to all of you for your hard
work. Hope Leon
No matter if I love the film, I am always happy that I saw it. Most
enlighten me about topics and make me better for having seen it. Jane
G.
I'm so glad I'm a member of AFF. I'm rarely disappointed in a pick and
wish to thank Julian and his committee for the great work they do each
year. It's also heartening to know AFF supports local charities.
Thanks again, gang. Jackie O.
Thank you to the entire AFF volunteer group without whom these special
afternoons would not happen. Merry Christmas. Mardie P.
A win-win event- the AFF crew does all the work finding great films,
and profits go to worthwhile charities. All I do is show up and enjoy!
Claudette S.
Julian and crew, thanks again for another great year of films. See you
in January. Deb
Didn’t see as many films as I wanted to this year. Busy schedule for
me. Hope to see more next year. Sue h.
Thank you for presenting such wonderful, thought-provoking films;
truly they're works of art. How sad that these films are not main
stream. Marlene C.
This was the best year yet for film selection at the Ancaster Film
Fest. Phyllis D.
Congratulations on the phenomenal amount donated to Hamilton charities. Barry S.
As always, I appreciate the time and effort you and your AFF
volunteers put into providing just a wonderful array of films.
Friends and I also always enjoy the introductions to films, a 'heads
up' for watching, whether it be hints about special considerations to
look for: story line, characterization, history of bringing the
particular film to screen. What continues to impress me as well is
the wonderful welcome to the films and interest in our response as we
leave and in the follow up in email and Facebook. Jerry Ann C.
Thank you for providing such wonderful films this term. The double
features were very interesting and allowed me to catch up on my
"circles" because I was away in the winter/spring. We always leave
the theatre thinking about humanity. You and your team make great
selections. I look forward to next year's season. Have a happy
fall/winter season. Mary M.
Anyway, I thought you made a GREAT selection for the last film in
November. It was so very appropriate and a great tribute to the male
species for "Movember". I know that like me, everyone appreciates
your thoughtfulness and insight in the selection of films for the AFF.
Great Year...and great films this year (maybe better than last).
Anna Maria D.
Really enjoy the variety of films shared at AFF. Many are very
unavailable to the general public. Thank you! Anon
We have enjoyed our movie-going experience presented by the Ancaster
Film Fest and we are looking forward to the coming season. Thank You.
Jim B.
This little exercise reminds me of the wonderful opportunities we have
to see exceptionable films through AFF. Thanks to all. Georgina H.
A very enjoyable year of movies. Keep ;up the good work and thanks for
all you do. Anon
Thank you for your dedication and hard work in organizing this fest. Roce V.
I appreciated the change in format for re-registering. The previous
long line-ups seemed so unnecessary. Judy H.
Keep up the excellent work. I missed too many of the movies this past
Fall, I aim to do better in 2012 Seasons Greetings, Rochelle S.
I can't believe that I missed so many this year. I'll do better in
2012!! Thanks for all your great work. Lynda K.
I find that each of the films offered are excellent and definitely
worth my time. I appreciate renting the AFF films in the library -
always excellent. Keep up the great work! Kathryn C.
Starbuck was my first movie with AFF. I am thrilled to have a
membership for next year and look forward to the line-up. Roberta B.
We really appreciate the passion and warm welcome organizers
demonstrate/provide. The pre-film remarks/background are also
appreciated. Anon
Keep up with your great variety of films! John G.
Georgina and I have been going to movies together for over 40 years now(Wow) and have spent much
time discussing where to go and how to catch a good movie and much bemoaning all the good movies we
didn't get to see and the sad state of the movie industry. As we watched the SIXTH STELLAR
performance of this season I felt a profound gratitude and realized we no longer do that. Now, it
is "See you on the 18th" with complete confidence we will have a wonderful time,-much more
even than a terrific movie- extra interesting info, a warm community experience and
contribution to a good cause all organized. So, once again, thank you. You all are
much appreciated.!!!! So very sorry about George, he will be sorely missed. Sincerely, Maureen M.
Thank you for your efforts. We continue to enjoy most films that we see, and even for films we
don’t like, it’s interesting to discuss why. Jim and Monica M
This was my first season at the AFF and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks for
all of your hard work in putting this together. Kathryn S.
We have thoroughly enjoyed the films presented in the first half of 2011. All have
been well worth seeing and thought provoking. Paul & Barbara Blake
You are doing an excellent job of choosing films. Any chance of
scheduling The Tree of Life? Paula E.
Well done! Love how this is a win win situation for all who attend...............great
films to watch and money goes to many charities in the Hamilton area. Dorothy G.
Keep up the good work. Norm B.
Did not appreciate the level of "Blue Valentine". Most others were very entertaining
and in most cases "excellent". Thank You for all you do for this film festival. Barbara B.
Overall another enjoyable season. Maureen H.
Your chosen films are varied and always delightful to see. Many have "dark" subjects
but always thought-provoking. Keep up the good work! Joan A.
I thank-you all who organize the films, I love coming each time and
find the selection is great. Lisa S.
Anyway I can support you in the future be happy to .. thanks for all you do to make
the community a better place with your donations but thanks for allowing me to
see film that I would not normally had watched .. and with my retired teacher friends. Jan L.
Terrific variety of choices and type of movie. Thanks! Jill and Ian D.
This is my first year subscribing to the film fest and I'm enjoying it very much. Carolyn V.
Another terrific year of world class films - thank you! Please keep the
wide range from comedic to heavier films! Ginny G.
Keep it up---your selection is very good and we do like to see at last one film a session that is lighter fare. Cathy C.
Thanks for making "non-Hollywood" films accessible. Pamela H.
You folks are absolutely incredible at picking out the films for the AFF,
film after film you hit it out of the park. My admiration for a difficult job well done. David B.
With life being so busy we have not been able to see many of the movies
this year but if I win I will have the incentive to come. I have always
loved all the movies I have seen - they are often very thought provoking and always enjoyable. Barbara N.
A warm thank you for all the hard work in organizing and running such an
exceptional on-going event where so many benefit from good theatre. Anna I.
Great selections. Thank you! Alan D.
Keep up the great work. Huge variety of films. Many are thought provoking! Anon
Thank you Julian and your crew for another great year of excellent and thought-provoking films. Anon
Repeated thanks for your whole organization and the chance to see these wonderful
films. Such a contrast with TIFF and the hype and greed Bravo! I also appreciate the
chance to rent films which I didn't see. I spread the word about AFF wherever and wherever I can. Marilyn C.W.
I am always so excited to see the films, because they are all fabulous. You never let
us down. What a wonderful window on the world we have in the Ancaster Film Festival! Linda K.
Really enjoyed being a member this year! excellent movie choices overall. Emma G.
Always a good evening at AFF. Congratulations! Maureen M.
A great selection of films and we only missed one but are looking forward to the
rest of the year and next year. Marvin R.
Thanks for another excellent season. A diverse and challenging set of films.
Without you at the AFF, we would not have the chance to experience films that are
memorable and make us think long after first viewing. We always have much to talk
about after one of our Monday afternoons at the cinema! Gary G.
THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR DOING SUCH A GREAT JOB. WE ALL BENEFIT FROM YOUR EFFORTS. Linda H.
Marshall and I are both so grateful to you all for all the work you do to make
this possible. We enjoy the AFF greatly. Virginia B.
Always enjoy my night at film fest, try very hard not to miss it, great films. Carol H.
I have been a member since the Film Festival's inception and have enjoyed every
film I have attended. I like the idea that it is a charity and a social outing. Liz K.
Thanks to the AFF team for all the work you do to bring us such great film experiences. Mardie P.
I really enjoy the AFF and thank you for doing such a wonderful job of showing
films that are not huge blockbusters but thought provoking and really enjoyable. Margo H.
Nice mix of genres so far. James M.
I love the films and make every effort to see any I miss (one in the case of the "year" just ended). Paul D.
Congratulations on a great Film Festival. Excellent selections and very well
organized. It's a wonderful event to have in Ancaster! Roberta F.
Your choices this year have been wonderful. Great, sometimes off-beat but well worth seeing. Norma S.
Excellent Season. Carolyn B.
Thanks to Julian and all the volunteers for the great work they do! Mary W.
Another great season, Team Ancaster. Yay. Barry S.
Again a very enjoyable year of movies. Thanks for your time and efforts. Judy B.
AFF is a great way to see films not usually presented - keep up the good work. R. F.
You guys pick great movies. Peggy G.
You have made outstanding choices this year, every film gave much food for
thought & discussion. Thanks for all the work you do on our behalf. Doris C.
As always you chose fabulous movies for us to see and feel and ponder,
thanks again hope you are all enjoying a relaxing summer and i look forward to the movies in the fall. Joanne H.
THE FATHER OF MY CHILDREN
Certainly not a favourite...feel like I missed the meaning of the
film...if there was one! Monica M.
The first hour until Gregoire killed himself was exceedingly dull. The second half of the
movie is a little better, but doesn’t salvage the movie. Throughout,
there were several completely pointless scenes. In the scene where Clemence tells her
mother that it's OK for her younger sister to take the film canister containing worthless
edits of a film, she uses the expression "poubelle", i.e., "garbage". I thought,
what a metaphor for this movie - it should have been consigned to the cutting-room
floor. Easily the worst movie I've seen at AFF in the past three years. Jim M.
Interesting. Dorothy G.
Casting was great, acting was great, script was weak. Lise G.
This film had good acting and a very natural feeling/sense of momentum but
still didn't make a strong connection with me... I 'm not sure why. Anon
Interesting but a bit depressing. Eileen H.
Downer. Maureen H.
Good movie, sad to see the fall of a good man. David B.
Very depressing! Anon
Sad but true. Judy D.
Not believable, scenes didn't flow well. Anon
Incredible! Linda K.
In my opinion, it lacked the depth. Olga R.
I know it was a good film but can't remember much about it
which tells you something. Maureen M.
THE SLICE DID NOT QUITE WORK -- THE WORLD IS ONE I COULD NOT RELATE TO. Linda H.
Beautiful view of French life. Not one bit soppy. Not one cruel character. Virginia B.
Heart wrenching and reminders of hidden emotions. Carol H.
Very well done, but a downer. Liz K.
Excellent, great film. Jackie O.
Wonderful. Norma S.
I'm confused still about the significance of the papers he burned. Mary W.
Good story. Poorly edited. Bette B.
Sadly a subject which no one wants to speak of. Judy B.
No flow to the action / kids portrayal was great / subtitles may have been distracting. R. F.
Excellent acting by the children--otherwise I found it strange. Donna G.
I found this a bit disjointed. Doris C.
BARNEY'S VERSION
An entertaining tale. Paul Giamatti is excellent. I enjoyed Rosamund Pike's
performance, and thought Dustin Hoffman was a hoot! Jim M.
One of the best films I have seen for a long time..Paul Giamatti gave a
superb performance, he runs the gamut of emotions and manages to 'age'
perfectly..great job by the makeup artists involved. Ron and Lynda V.
Very entertaining. Dorothy G.
Good acting and production but not necessarily abpout likable people. Norm B.
Loved it. Skip and BJ R.
Loved it!!! acting was fabulous. Lise G.
I loved the book and I loved the movie. Anon
Loved it, a real reprobate who I wanted to dislike but couldn't do it!! Eileen H.
Entertaining. Maureen H.
True Mordecai. Great spin on relationships. Joan A.
I loved this film and if anything was disappointed that it did not get any Oscar nominations! Lisa S.
Great characterization! Ginny G.
Was never a big Paul GIAMATTI fan but must admit that he has
won me over with this role and the ones that followed. David B.
Funny and poignant. Judy D.
Witty, funny, great acting. Anon
Should have been nominated for academy awards in several categories.
Much much more worthy than The King's Speech. Anon
I was deeply touched by missed joy in his life. Marilyn C. W.
Loved it. Linda K.
Very well acted and done (I've read the book as well) and enjoyed both. Olga R.
Very entertaining, fun, heart catching. Maureen M.
Good acting, but Barney was not how I pictured him when I read the book. Linda H.
The book was much better. Wife was much too perfect in the movie. Virginia B.
Funny and sad all at once. Carol H.
Funny and sad at the same time. Liz K.
Very good adaption. Jackie O.
Excellent movie. Paul Giamatti should have been nominated for Best
Actor for the Oscars. Patti W.
Lovely but very busy. Norma S.
I thought this was very well done...I wonder though, why it was called a comedy. Mary W.
Delightful screenplay on Richler's novel. Good adaptation. Barry S.
Inspired me to pick up the book. Bette B.
Appreciate Canadian as subject of the story. Judy B.
Great portrait of a life presented in an entertaining fashion. R. F.
The acting was superb. Peggy G.
Enjoyed this---read the book again. Donna G.
An eye opener into a life. Doris C.
This was a look at a man, very well acted by Paul Giamatti, whose life
seemed to be controlled by a gullibility and naivete and a desire to be kind and do the right
thing (ie- marry his pregnant girlfriend, trusting the baby was his)
along with almost uncontrollable basic urges and insecurities
which led to his 'downfall' in the end he did not make choices
according to what was best for him until he married his 3rd wife,
beautifully portrayed by Rosamund Pike, but he was very co-dependent
on her in wanting her to be what he needed her to be rather than
supporting her interests and desires he alienated himself from her
and when he cheated on her and lied about it he set the stage
for the separation from her that let to his ultimate dementia
the music was wonderful and the settings, wardrobe and make up were great also. Joanne H.
MADE IN DAGENHAM
Light but enjoyable. Jim and Monica M.
A very moving, informative and often humorous treatment
of gender conflict, albeit one that is stil pertinent. Carl B.
A film with a message..this was not a piece of fluff
in my eyes..Sally Hawkins was terrific and a rock solid
performance by Bob Hoskins. My son was surprised when
I told him the movie was made in Merthyr Tydfil
where he lives! Ron & Lynda V.
An inspirational film – well acted. Paul & Barbara B.
Don't like anything resembling science fiction! Paula E.
I was sitting at the edge of my seat, cheering her on! Hope L.
Very interesting. Dorothy G.
Well made, fun predictable. Norm B.
We lived there once so were interested in locale. Skip and BJ R.
Surprised me how much I loved his film, plus you learn some history. Lise G.
Interesting story and very entertaining. Anon
Another excellent English movie, made without big names (and
probably no bit budget) but told the story with
humour and integrity. Eileen H.
Entertaining but educational at same time. Maureen H.
Wonderful film, loved that it was based on true
story and it was one of the more uplifting ones. Lisa S.
Lived in UK at the time, remember it well! Jeff T.
Somewhat glorified but enjoyable as a result. Pamela H.
Good inspiring movie, especially in an NDP town like Hamilton. David B.
I have a friend who is very high up in CUPE -
I gave her the info - she loved it. Barbara N.
Very inspirational how a group of women stood up for what is right.
A small group of leaders created support from other women
and the rest of the union. Anon
Great film, great story. Margot O.
Feel good movie. Judy D.
Very enjoyable and uplifting. Anon
Enjoyable/informative. Anon
Did not know about this strike. Esp. liked scene where she
asks CEO to sew seat together. Marilyn C. W.
Priceless. Linda K.
Something about unions that everyone should know. Glenn H.
Interesting from the point of view of the particular time
in history of Great Britain and its issues, and
good acting as well. Olga R.
Those were the days. Great. Maureen M.
Predictable Norma Rae-ish but important message. Virginia B.
A great motivating movie and great memory of my days
working At Ford and not being allowed to even wear pant suits. Carol H.
A great film! Enjoyed every minute. Liz K.
Hilarious and feisty. Mardie P.
Very Good. Jackie O.
Funny, entertaining & great acting. Norma S.
Reminded me of Calendar Girls because of the wonderful character actors. Mary W.
Uplifting. Bette B.
Go girls go! Judy B.
A "Norma Rae" re-production / predictable. R. F.
Most enjoyable. Donna G.
Powerful, moving. Anon
A great film that I can relate to. Doris C.
I found this very inspirational and, as a woman, almost
incomprehensible how it took this long for women to have
parity in the workplace and i realize this is still not
happening everywhere yet, by any means for me the best
quote in the movie was made by Sally Hawkin's character,
Rita O'Grady, when she responded to the press
when asked how they would cope if they did not
get parity as the female workers were going to
meet with the female labour minister; it was
something to the effect of: ''how will we cope?,
we're women, stop asking stupid questions.''
There were many very strong credible performances
by virtually all the women in the movie and a pretty
grim portrayal of the attitudes of all the men, except
Bob Hoskins who supported the female workers from
the start, having seen how hard his mother worked
to support her children eventually sally's husband came
to recognize and appreciate what she was doing and
representing and then finally the male union members
who voted for parity understood the magnitude and
justice of the situation when women strike the world
stops and Ford management finally 'got' this; that
Ford did not require a bail out, like the other major
American auto companies a couple of years back, makes
one wonder if their more enlightened policies thanks
to the English ladies of Dagenham played a role there
in some way? it was also a wonderful portrayal of how
women supported each other for the good of the whole,
whether by lending a red dress or supporting a grieving
widow friend or boosting self worth when one is
tempted to sell out via a racy photo shoot. Joanne H.
INCENDIES
I just wanted to send a short email to let you know how much I enjoyed today's movie.
I think it is the best movie I have ever seen (and I go to a lot of movies) with
such a powerful story. Thank you for showing it. It is a very important movie
and I hope it wins Best Foreign Film at Sunday's awards. Margo H
I can’t stop thinking about today’s film- I am already excited to see it
again when it comes out on DVD, so I can share it with my daughter. Judy D.
Just to thank you, Julian, for to-day's (grim) selection - Incendies.
This was exceptionally well made, if a BIT confusing (I think I could profit from seeing it a second time). Really powerful, and gave what seems an excellent evocation of the whole sorry, brutal story of religious. internecine conflict. Not to mention the contrasts in the country as a whole, the mores of its people, the contrasts of humanity and brutality. A far cry from Made in Dagenham (which was entertaining, but not such a good film, I think). Marilyn B-O.
Incendies was quite a movie the best I've seen this year, although
I was very moved by "The Father of my Children". I had a part in the
chorus of the Bacchae in University - took me back to my Greek drama days
Oedipus et al. I phoned my son and his wife and they went to the 7:15 and
loved it. My daughter-in-law is French speaking and it was a treat for her
to experience film in her first language. They hope to be
back to see Blue Valentine. Allison N.
One of the best three films I have ever seen. Paul S.
Good for the most part, but plot twist at end is unbelievable.
Very good photography. Jim and Monica M.
This is one of the most thought provoking movies that my wife and I
have seen in a long time. It is a movie that demands an early re-viewing
because its metaphorical nature implies many levels of significance
concerning the journey depicted, as well as the relationship of
Canada to the bitter conflicts we hear about. Carl B.
Powerful.. but I could not come to grips with the storyline..why would
the mother put her twins through this?..but a well-crafted film
nevertheless. Ron & Lynda V.
Our first choice. Just an excellent film. The horrors of war! Paul & Barbara B.
A very powerful excellent film. Hope L.
Very powerful. Dorothy G.
Outstanding and harsh - lots of tension, high drama but unlike
many Hollywood "blockbusters" it had the necessary balancing
peaceful bits of humanity. Norm B.
Very sad. Skip and BJ R.
Powerful, moving, hard to watch at times especially knowing the truth in these types of films. Lise G.
Very powerful and complex story... I could watch this many times. Anon
Very well done, a real example of why I love the Film fest, the
sort of film I would never go to at the 'regular' movies but so glad I saw it. Eileen H.
Compelling, artistic, a story that stays with you. Maureen H.
Thought provoking. Beautiful scenery and wonderful acting. Joan A.
Very powerful. Lisa S.
Really difficult subject matter. Nora W.
Very unsettling. Ginny G.
Disturbing to watch, but films like this need to be seen. Pamela H.
Great movie, amazing to watch around the theater as different
people figured out the end earlier than others. David B.
The best movie ever. Anon
This was the most shocking and amazing film! Flawless script. Claudette S.
So much damage in every war! Anon
Haunted me for days. Margot O.
Incredible. Judy D.
Riveting film, great acting but no mother would do this to her
children upon her death. Anon
Shocking conclusion. Anon
Blown away Linda K.
I found the story disturbing, that a mother would put her children through that. Laraine B.
Disturbing but powerful cinematography. Olga R.
Will never forget one detail of this amazing film. Maureen M.
Wonderful, mysterious, heartbreaking. Linda H.
Lovely view of Canada where people can make a life despite unspeakable
pasts. Lovely view of Canadians--the math professor, the notary. Story
wasn't well told. You didn't care deeply about these people. Virginia B.
Loved the pathos of this film. B.W. P.
So disturbing but what a movie of one woman's courage. Carol H.
Couldn't keep the mail characters straight. Hence I was confused some of the time. Liz K.
I thought this film was one of the best I've ever seen in my life and
I have seen many, many films. I would love to see it again but have
not been able to find it anywhere except on Cogeco on Demand but
only in French. Margo H.
Excellent, great film. Jackie O.
Dark and a difficult subject. However, excellent cinematography and acting. Patti W.
Enjoyed very much. Norma S.
Very,very powerful. Mary W.
Overrated. Barry S.
Liked the Canadian connection. Bette B.
A good narrative can move the viewer to forgiveness. Judy B.
Great story but so brutal. R. F.
Very difficult but necessary to watch. Peggy G.
Powerful. Donna G.
Powerful. Doris C.
This was a really incredible movie of such depth and tragedy and
triumph of the human spirit that it left me speechless and pondering
for many days, and still the settings, both in Quebec and in the middle
east were very authentic and the mission Jeanne and Simon undertook
at their mother, Narwal's last request was daunting again it was
the women in the movie who suffered indescribable loss and pain
mainly at the hands of men- murder of a lover, loss of a baby given
away, rape and torture and yet, it was narwal's purpose with her
letters and instructions outlined in her will to bring peace of mind
to all 3 of her children (Rihad, Jeanne and Simon) via the truth
and to surround them in the surety of her unending love for all of
them even from the grave she elevated the basest of human intention
and behaviour to the highest form of love and peace through the
transformative power of understanding and acceptance and forgiveness,
an example ost of us can only aspire to. Joanne H.
BLUE VALENTINE
Great chemistry between Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams.
A bit too much 'close-up' shots but an emotionally-charged film that
tells its story and leaves you asking lots of questions. Ron & Lynda V.
Interesting. Dorothy G.
Well acted but why produce this. Norm B.
Too explicit. Skip and BJ R.
Well acted, not sure why I was enamored with it. Lise G.
Disappointing. I found it tedious, despite strong acting. Anon
A bit disappointing after all the rave reviews. Eileen H.
Couldn't relate to the characters. Maureen H.
Interesting, very raw. Lisa S.
Well done, great performances but the helplessness of the
situation was heartbreaking. David B.
More depressing than hell. Margot O.
Good lesson for teenagers- should be on high school curriculum. Judy D.
Bordered on pornography. Anon
Some lovely scenes but excessive sex. Marilyn C. W.
Wonderful acting, but another slice of reality that is sad. Linda K.
For some reason, I did not share the praise it received. Olga R.
So very real. Fantastic camera work. Maureen M.
The acting was good but I felt the writer did not know how to
end it and left it up in the air. Marvin R.
A little pat, a little jumbled. Linda H.
Too much fighting, too much shouting, awful view of
working class--unlike Made in Dagenham. Virginia B.
I felt so sorry for the dad but for some reason not as much for the mom. Carol H.
A little far out for me. Liz K.
Sad to watch but well done. Mardie P.
Really great film but very depressing at the same time. Margo H.
Excellent, great film. Jackie O.
The acting was fine, but the movie was not. Mary W.
All middle-aged music should see this one. Bette B.
A very tragic story. Judy B.
Everyday life story / inadequate dialogue to get into the psychology of the two people. R. F.
Sad theme but very well done. Peggy G.
Great performances. Donna G.
I almost didn't go to this screening based on the comments about
it earlier, but was glad i did and did not find it as depressing
as was portrayed it was very well acted by Ryan Gosling and Michelle
Williams and i felt the final outcome was more one of hope than
despair as ryan walked into the fireworks even though Cindy and dean
liked and maybe even loved each other while dating, their marriage
was based on ''doing the right thing'' when an unplanned baby was on
the way, a baby whose father was not even known for sure it was clear
that each had big self worth issues from their childhood and neither
had worked these through prior to marrying so, the fact that they
grew apart was not a real surprise the decision to separate was a healthy one,
in my opinion, though it was a pretty dramatic coming to blows to
make it happen when dean lost it at Cindy's workplace i felt their
daughter knew she was loved by both her parents regardless of their
relationship with each other and this was the hopeful part this movie
was just chapter 1 of the lives of
this family...much more to come! Joanne H.
ANOTHER YEAR
Jill and I would like to tell you that we found Another Year had a
most powerful impact on both of us. It is an amazing piece of work -
script, direction and acting all marvellously integrated in a work that
perhaps some members would find too close to the bone.
Many thanks for bringing it to us. Ian D.
Jim and I thought the couple and the other characters quite realistic.
Imelda Staunton's role was most gripping at the beginning. The office
clerk was headed for her lot in life it seemed and the saddest part
was her realization of lost opportunities, trips etc when Katie's was
talking. I thought she was an awful person, not very kind. As you see,
they were real characters to me. Can't say it was an enjoyable, happy
movie but certainly a good one, Thank you and your team for bringing
it to us. We're really looking forward to the next one. Grace S.
Very good movie, very well acted. Leslie Manville's performance
as Mary is terrific. Jim and Monica M.
Another great Festival-picked movie. I found all of the characters
well-formed and compelling. Hard to find any fault with this one.
The best actors and actresses look like they are not acting and
Jim Broadbent and Ruth Sheen are the 'anchors' in this one. Ron & Lynda V.
One more or less sane couple surrounded by “characters” Paul & Barbara B.
Interesting Dorothy G.
Well acted poignant without becoming obsessive. Norm B.
So well done. Skip and BJ. R.
True to life, excellent casting, well acted film. Lise G.
Wonderful acting, great script, fascinating, complex interplay among the characters. Anon
Another low key English movie with a story to tell with
'real' actors unlike some of the Hollywood types. Eileen H.
Bit slow. Maureen H.
Delightfully, genuinely British - as only they can do it! Ginny G.
Great performances by a cast of unlikely leading actors.
Gives one much to ponder. David B.
Depressing as hell. Margot O.
Entertaining, funny and insightful- excellent acting. Judy D.
Characters were too stereotypical, nowhere near as good as
Secrets and Lies and Vera Drake. Anon
Beautiful story of life as it is. Anon
Loved this . So natural. Very interesting process. Marilyn C. W.
A slice of real life with fabulous acting. Linda K.
Ugh. Another year of the same old on its way. I guess that was the point. Maureen M.
How did they have so many dysfunctional friends? Such a
social worker! "I'm not angry. I'm disappointed in you." Virginia B.
Many subjects touched on here, esp about singles life's;
wish they could have portrayed one happy single character;
only happiness portrayed was once the single became a couple. Carol H.
Great message. Norma S.
Very good. Jackie O.
Again, marvellous character actors. Mary W.
Another great piece from this team. Barry S.
One of the best this year. Judy B.
Great story, great acting. R. F.
Good movie--could only have been made with British actors. Donna G.
Excellent. Doris C.
This movie was so well acted and created such real feelings
for me that i didn't like it too much, similar to Barney's
version i didn't think the lonely co-worker, Leslie Manville,
was the only one who drank too much; it seemed to me that
the ''happily married couple'' imbibed a fair bit as well i
didn't think anyone was particularly happy in this movie,
but i felt it was an authentic portrayal of how people cope
with their life circumstances and how honest or dishonest
they are with themselves and others in the process another
look at different levels of self worth among the characters
with a rather dismal ending still, there is always the
potential for people to change perspectives and create
different circumstances for themselves though often it
takes a bottoming out to inspire such. Joanne H.
MUSIC FROM THE BIG HOUSE
A quick note to say how much we enjoyed "Music From The Big House".
It was amazing, interesting and informative and very moving. We also
enjoyed the Q&A with Rita at the end of the movie. Thank you for
bringing us such a wonderful movie. Your selections this year have
been fabulous, as usual. Looking forward to seeing the last
movie in May. Audrey M.
What a great year for AFF movies..another gem and having
Rita Chiarelli and the producer there was a plus. Black and
white is poignant where 'life' really means life. Not just
about the music. Ron & Lynda V.
Another excellent inspirational film. It was great to
have the lady responsible at the presentation. Paul & Barbara B.
Powerful, justice. Dorothy G.
Loved the music. Skip and BJ R.
Also was a pleasant surprise how well this documentary
was so well put together, loved what I learned. Lise G.
Well done documentary. Enjoyed Q & A. thanks!! Maureen H,
Rita did a great job under trying circumstances. Joan A.
Bringing out the best. Ginny G.
Entertaining- better than I expected. Judy D.
Very informative -- gave me a better perspective. Anon
Loved the music. Linda K.
A good look into "privileged" prison life. Glenn H.
I enjoyed it as a "project" by Rita Chiarelli and
the angles she managed to explore and bring out to the public. Olga R.
WOW. Awesome, as the kids say. Maureen M.
Excellent: the stories, the characters, the songs.
Just some of her repetitive phrases bothered me. Linda H.
The prisoners were great. Virginia B.
This film needed more exposure to the prison and the inmates
to rank as an excellent film.Rita Chiarelli should have
considered recording the featured songs in a sound studio
over the performance. She tends to get excited and
begins to shout and not enunciate clearly. B.W. P.
Very well thought through. Great talent and leadership. Liz K.
Well done documentary; never bored. Carol H.
Excellent. Jackie O.
Great documentary. Patti W.
Nice music. Norma S.
Much food for thought, about redemption and forgiveness...fine music as well. Mary W.
Nice documentary of her work and their 'redemption'. Barry S.
Nothing like meeting the makers. Better B.
Refreshing to see something good in the big house. Judy B.
Well done--provided lots of food for thought. Donna G.
Final introduction to musicians was like a cold shower. Anon
This was really wonderful...I was very taken with the movie. Anon
Amazing film. Doris C.
I was very moved by this documentary and have the poster
signed by Rita Chiarelli on the wall behind me as i write
as with all of human experience, it is the juxtaposition
of opposites that provides the experience and any wisdom
that results so, Rita's questioning about victim/perpetrator
as she worked with the inmates at Angola prison was
never really solved one has to rise above the level of
the acts to the place that Narwal did in ''Incendies''
to see the bigger picture the main message of this movie
for me, though, was the amazing healing, elevating and
inspiring role that music can play in our lives no matter
our physical circumstances...it transcends all it was
especially great to have Rita present to discuss with us
and i have to say that both my son and i felt that none
of the pictures of her, either in the movie or on the
CD cover did her justice. Joanne H.
THE FIRST GRADER
Very good movie, solid performances by Oliver Litondo and Naomi Harris.
Palpable tension - we expected that more violence would erupt in the "present' day.
Very good photography. Jim and Monica M.
Not a misstep this season..Naomie Harris 'was' the teacher like Helen Mirren was the
'Queen'. As a young chap in England I remember listening to the newscasts about the
Kikuyu and the Mau Mau uprising. Ron & Lynda V.
A great story – again inspirational – however we felt the resolutions of
the various conflicts was too “Hollywood” predictable. Paul & Barbara B.
Powerful, intense. Dorothy G.
Charming and realistic - we loved it because we were involved with those
same schools fifty years ago. Norm B.
Marvellous! Skip and BJ R.
Heartwarming and courageous. Lise G.
Excellent. Anon
Excellent - about a time I remember listening to the radio as a child in
England and hearing about the Mao Mao 'terrorists', never their side of
the story - extremely well done. Eileen H.
Wonderful story, characters you can love. Maureen H.
A true slice of life in Africa. Joan A.
I really liked this film for a few reasons, namely the acting, the
fact that it demonstrated enduring strength that can be extracted from
human beings and the filming itself was beautifully done. Lisa S.
Powerful and inspiring! Ginny G.
Another great film that unfolds perfectly as it goes on. David B.
Very good but the end was not believable. Anon
Very real picture of colonialsim and the challenges colonies (people)
face after the rulers are gone. Unbelievable how "natives" of a country
were treated and the hurt goes on. Very inspiring how an old man decides
to improve his mind and get an education. His strong spirit
prevailed with a little help from his friends. Anon
Inspiring. Margot O.
Educational- good exposure to what goes on in
other parts of the world. Judy D.
Very well done, another uplifting film. Anon
Inspiring film. Anon
A wonderful inspiring story. Imagine the wasted human
potential and the problems that wait to be solved! Marilyn C. W.
Fabulous! Linda K.
A piece of history that needs to be told. Glenn H.
Very well presented and the acting was believable. Laraine B.
I enjoyed the history behind it and the power of the human spirit. Olga R.
Well done but something was off for me. Not sure why. Maureen M.
OUTSTANDING, WONDERFUL ACTING, WONDERFUL TELLING OF A
VERY SAD HISTORY; GREAT THAT IT ENDED IN HAPPINESS. Linda H.
Loved this movie. Virginia B.
Would have liked to seen something more of his considerable
world-wide recognition at the end of the film. B.W. P.
Again, the strength and determination portrayed is unbelievable
and knowing it is true, how can we complain. Carol H.
Wonderfully moving. A great accomplishment. Liz K.
So touching and so beautifully filmed - even the door blowing in
the wind suggested movement forward. Mardie P.
Wonderful film that gives us all a reason to keep trying to
achieve something worthwile in life. Margo H.
Loved it!!! cinematography, acting scenery, script
storyline were all excellent. Patti W.
This movie stayed with me for a long time I found myself
thinking about it over and over again. Judy W.
Great story, wonderful children. Mary W.
Reminded me of my teaching years in West Africa. Barry S.
Everyone should see this one. Recommended this one
to my grandchildren. Bette B.
A wonderful story about a person who wanted an almost
impossible goal. Judy B.
Great story, great acting, loved it. R. F.
Excellent! There was a write-up in the Globe on the weekend
about Naomie Harris....good read. Anon
Great film that could be shown in our schools to suggest how
difficult it is to obtain an education in other countries
and how we should appreciate the privileges in Canada. Doris C.
Being a retired grade 3 teacher....LOVED IT!!!!! Hope L.
A wonderful portrayal, in every way, of going for
what you want and deserve and have sacrificed and
suffered for and are willing to work for i loved the
80+ year old Maruge in the school uniform of short
pants and knee socks; that visual as much as anything
he said or did spoke volumes as to his deep desire to
participate and to learn and grow it is so much easier,
sometimes, to laugh at and criticize and threaten than
to support change as witnessed by Maruge's peers at the
'bar' and those who make the rules in government and
those on the school board what an inspiration that man
was to a whole nation in recovery and to those of us in
far off lands and in different decades, as well...if he
can stand up for what he wants (even using his goat at bus
fare to go to the city to plead his case with the rule-makers),
so can i! When we need a shove or a reminder to take a stand,
maybe it is time to get a goat! Joanne H.
WIN WIN
Enjoyed the story line and the performances. Giamatti is superb. Anna I.
Good story of an everyday guy trying to do good but still screwing up. David B.
Contained compassion with some ulterior motives. Mary M.
Marvellous actors. Loved the boy. Maureen M.
Entertaining. Hope L.
Uplifting film. Jane G.
Wonderful acting - great story. Kathryn D.
Very enjoyable, great acting by the teenage wrestler as well as Paul
Giamatti. Deb
Paul Giamatti is GREAT! Anon
Enjoyed this film and the growth of the character as the movie
progressed. Gay P.
I don't usually like "Sports" movies but this one was great, did you
ever see a Paul Giamatti film that you didn't just love?? Lynda V.
We enjoyed this movie very much. Mike's story was most believable
character. His story was well presented in this very involving story.
Jim B.
Great performance by Giamatti. Mary W.
Thoroughly enjoyable. Paul Giamatti is amazing. Kathryn D.
Paul Giamatti never disappoints! Anon
I like just about everything Giamatti does. Like his flawed
protagonists - hero is stretching it. Liked his sleazy bit in Ides of
March too. Georgina H.
Great story and acting by Paul Giamatti and all the supporting cast. Anon
It seems that any film with Paul Giamatti is really enjoyable. Great
acting and script! Olga R.
IN A BETTER WORLD
Very familiar issues in our world today. Judy H.
Some coincidences stretched credibility. Gayle B.
Powerful plot and wonderful life lesson!! Anna I.
Fantastic film that really gave me much to think about when
considering the tough decisions in the film. David B.
Very thought provoking. Mary M.
good movie, suspenseful, well acted by all, but unbelievable pat
ending - hard to believe that the psychopath Christian turns into a
good boy after a brief conversation with Elias' father on top of the
silo. Jim M.
Very good movie. Hope L,
Interesting conflict between family and doing 'good deeds'. Jackie O.
Brutally frank - exceptional film production. Norman B.
Very realistic, makes you think about the effects of bullying. Deb
So sad but I loved the contrast and how the movie moved so beautifully
from Scandinavia to Africa, another winner! Lynda V.
Compelling drama of an imperfect world; it stayed with me for days. Marlene C.
International, raised ethical questions, engaging. Ellen R.
Shows the difficulties that arise when principles clash with real life. Mary W.
Loved the ethical dilemmas, the complication of this. Georgina H.
Loved this film! Judy H.
Thought provoking. Elisabeth C.
Tough and thought-provoking. Anon
THE WHISTLEBLOWER
Great story line. Bonnie T.
Very disturbing film. Ruth M.
Brutally honest and unnerving........ Anna I.
Good story of a very disturbing situation and one person who had the
courage and ethics to stand up and fight it. David B.
Very conscience rising- what else is going on to exploit young
people?!!! Mary M.
So dark, so gripping. Rip your heart out. Maureen M.
Good drama, good performance by Weisz. Jim M.
Mind-boggling that such things happen in this world. Hope L.
Very powerful. Anon
Harsh but well done. Kathryn D.
Gripping. Megan D.
I loved the ending of this film, but at times it was hard to watch,
always wonderful to see films based on real life! Lynda V.
Great show about 1 person. Making a difference and not backing down
even when personal safety is at risk. How sad that a force meant to
protect actually is responsible for terrible harm. Shame on the UN.
Anon
I liked this movie because of its realism but one had to have a very
"strong stomach' for some of the scenes presented. A well presented
story. Jim B.
Harsh but powerful and important to see. Kathryn D.
Rachel Weisz was excellent as the lead actress, a thought provoking
movie. Judy W.
The most shocking film of the season, but, in my mind, not over
sensationalized. Georgina H.
The violence was a little off-putting, but other wise a great movie. Anne N.
Ouch - that these things do happen is scary. Judy H.
This film made a strong impression on me: the bravery and compassion
of the main character set against the cruelty and indifference of so
many others. Anon
Very unpleasant to watch at times. Didn't give me very good feelings
about the United Nations. Ron B.
A very difficult film to watch; felt like I'd been hit by a truck. Kathryn C.
I do like films based on true events as it adds real edge to the
story. This was a disturbing, but very informative film. Rachel Weisz
did a great job. Olga R.
Very tough subject matter but these stories need to be told. Anon
THE TREE OF LIFE
What was it all about? Bonnie T.
Reflective, and somewhat confusing in parts. Anna I.
Absolutely hated the film, almost walked out on it, just way overdone. David B.
Interesting. Mary M.
A long boring movie, a complete waste of time, the kind of movie that
makes you want to demand your money back. Endless scenes of children
cavorting and the mother fawning over her children, pointless long
scenes of the creation of the universe and dinosaurs that are not
related to the flimsy under-developed narrative, etc. Where was the
film editor? Why even bother having a good actor like Sean Penn in the
movie if in his brief appearances all he's called upon to do is
stumble around and look confused? Save money and hire the key grip to
play the part. I can't say a single good thing about this movie. It
was just tedious pretentious claptrap. Jim M.
Not my cup of tea. Hope L.
Conflicted by this movie, bored at times, beautifully shot film. Jackie O.
It may have been great in the 70's, but now it's passé. Norman B.
Long. Jennifer S.
While it had some amazing cinematography, a good editor and 60 minutes
less film would have greatly improved it. Claudette S.
Having trouble recalling the film. Paul B.
A real examination of the meaning of life - thought-provoking and very
beautifully done. Marlene C.
Appalling. Paul D.
A little slow and hard to know where film was going. Anon
Pretentious tripe. Anon
I found it this season's most soothing, beautiful to watch, but
spoiled somewhat by a dopey ending. Georgina H.
Brad Pitt did a wonderful job. The long sequences of volcanoes and
space became annoying. Anon
I did like the film because of its impressionistic approach and very
different way of appeal to individual senses. Definitely, not for
every viewer… Olga R.
SARAH'S KEY
Wonderful, emotional - sad. Norma S.
Loved the story - wonderful acting, casting. Gayle B.
Predictable. Bonnie. T.
Heart wrenching to know that people suffered through such horrid
events and the effects of those events. Anna I.
Heartbreaking story that brings two stories running side by side
together better then I've every seen it done. Kristin Scott Thomas is
obviously an actress to watch based on her last several movie
selections. David B.
Great insight into the Jewish situation in France! Mary M.
Best holocaust movie ever. Maureen M.
Wonderful actors - everyone had kind eyes. Linda H.
Dear to my heart because I am Jewish, and things like this did happen. Hope L.
Poignant, gripping. Jane G.
Excellent film, well done Kristin Scott Thomas. Jackie O.
The whole package. Mardie P.
Extremely well done - a spellbinder. Norman B.
Extremely thought provoking. Jennifer S.
I'd read the book first, and the film matched really well. The film
was easier to follow due to the time shifts from present to past
events, which was sometimes difficult to envision in the book. Anon
Gripping. Anon
A rare film that is actually better than the novel! Claudette S.
Very moving. Carrie M.
Very well done but the movie omits the troubled relationship between
the husband and wife. Deb
Kristin Scott Thomas was perfectly cast for the role. Megan D.
A gripping story. Paul B.
Haunting in many ways. Mistakes with grave consequences occur during
war time. Marlene C.
Book was much better. Patti W.
Holocaust genre plenteous, not quite up to Schindler's List) and
Starbuck 9 (absolutely great comedy and morality tale. Paul D.
We need to be reminded over and over the atrocities of war. Anon
Much better than the book. Mary W.
Good adaptation of the book, the little girl was wonderful. Kathryn D.
Very good movie. Judy W.
Although impressed with the work of Thomas and the illustration of how
the traumas of the past impact our present that present day part
niggled somewhat. I think I would have been satisfied with the
portrayal of the Vichy French horrors - a cautionary tale. Georgina
H.
Surprisingly faithful to the book. Anne N.
Provocative and informative - such tragedy that never goes away. Judy H.
Amazing story brought to life in this film. Karen S.
Very good adaptation of the book. Anon
Gut wrenching. Elisabeth C.
Important but painful events make you look at this part of history
with different eyes at country and its people. Olga R.
One of the rare instances when I like a film better than its book. Anon
Film and book were powerful stories. John G
STARBUCK
Hilarious - great end for season. Norma S.
Funny moments, a bit predictable. Gayle B.
Funny, sad, excellent acting. Bonnie T.
Very amusing and touching. Ruth M.
Funny. Warm. What a tasteful and sensitive handling of what is a very
controversial topic. David was great reaching out to all his
"children". Anna I.
A great way to end the season- with laughs and empathy. Mary M.
So Canadian, what humanity, what a treat! Maureen M.
FUNNY, TENDER, SAD -- PERFECT. Linda H.
Hilarious, and probably oh so true somewhere in the world. Hope L.
Light and very entertaining "real" not Hollywood (i.e. not glamorous). Jane G.
Great comedy on a serious subject. Jackie O.
Funny, touching, characters were real, subtitles well written. Mardie P.
Unrealistic, predictable but a "feel good" film. Norman B.
Very Uplifting. Jennifer S.
Surprisingly wonderful… touching and funny. Anon
Made me laugh and cry- a seminal screenplay! Claudette S.
Hilarious and touching. Kathryn D.
Very powerful. Carrie M.
Very funny and enjoyable. Deb
A week later, I'm still laughing about some of the scenes. Megan D.
An humorous film to watch; plot somewhat improbable upon reflection. Paul B.
This was a very interesting film and I liked that it ended on a
positive note. Gay P.
I laughed and cried at this moving story, such a wonderful ending to
the AFF season, thanks for bringing such wonderful film to us this
season! Lynda V.
Wonderful, delightful, and thought-provoking. What a dilemma David was
in. Society offers us many choices. Marlene C.
Hilarious. Loved the physical humour. Patrick Huard portrayed the
character excellently. Patti W.
Not often you hear genuine laughter in the theatre; David was a great
character. Mary W.
Best Film of the season. Anon
Hilarious. Kathryn D.
The only one I saw ... will see them all next year. Janice S.
The funniest film of the season. Georgina H.
Who could not fall in love with David. Anne N.
Delightful and different as the season ender. Judy H.
Silly. Elisabeth C.
The optimism and good nature carries through the whole film...You
leave the theatre with the heart of goodness and hope. Great acting!
Olga R.
Starbuck - I enjoyed everything about it. The comedic value was great
but the reality of what could have been (on a smaller scale) was also
evident. The characters were very real people with needs which created
deep emotions for many. Roberta B.
A delightful combo of humour and food for thought. Anon
Great Quebec humour again. John G.
Funny but could be possible in this world of medical possibilities. Jan F.
PROJECT NIM
Amazing that people could spend so much time and effort on a project
and be so callous. Anna I.
PHIL OCHS: THERE BUT FOR FORTUNE
Heart-warming. I wasn't aware of him and was very much part of that era. Anna I.
Terrific story and music! Maureen M.
Interesting. Jane G.
Great that this film was made. Some priceless original footage. Anon
Part of our history - great music beforehand too. Ellen R.
MIDNIGHT IN PARIS
OK. Ruth M
Typical Woody.........loved how "entering into the past to experience
it" was incorporated into the plotAnon.
A LOVELY FILM, BUT DEFINITELY HOLLYWOOD PREDICTABLE. SHOTS OF PARIS AT
THE BEGINNING WERE WONDERFUL. Linda H.
Charming movie - good work by Allan. Jim M.
Loved it! Jane G.
Should have seemed bizarre but was enchanting entry into former
period. Mardie P.
Wonderful imagination would love to watch it again. Jennifer S.
Meh. Heather R.
Delightful. Anon
What a great film-maker Woody Allen is, I loved this trip into the
past and found myself looking up more information on these wonderful
real-life characters from literary and artistic history. Lynda V.
A delightful movie. People should read Paris Wife if they enjoyed the
movie. Anon
If you're not a fan of Woody Allen, this may make you one! Rose V.
Acting is wonderful. Karen S.
Interesting approach...and idea. Olga R.
Quirky with Owen Wilson as likeable as I've seen him. However, Rachel
McAdams needs a better agent. Anon
BOBBY FISCHER AGAINST THE WORLD
Tragic............sad to see such giftedness end so badly. Anna I.
I enjoyed but did not think it that great. Perhaps warranted as
Fischer may have been greatest chess player ever but a puzzle the film
did not seem able to unlock. Fischer non cooperative and perhaps odd
- only rationale for film: odd. Paul D.
A BETTER LIFE
Touching. Anna I.
Most parents should be able to empathize with this film. Anon
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