Separation City

Not often does a movie come along that is so thought provoking and sobering.  Promoted as a man flick, we follow Simon’s (Joel Edgerton) relationship with his wife Pam (Danielle Cormack) whilst he struggles with infidelity and what drives him to that place.

Similar to another film ‘Sideways’ the story has a unique storytelling perspective – the male perspective!  The story has a lot of humour that covers the sobering and often destructive behaviours.  This film covers a lot of adult material and unsuitable for young people.  The film is based in Wellington, New Zealand and the cinematography is stunning.

This film will deeply affect you 1) as the male perspective is so refreshing and because 2) nothing hurts more than betrayal and lost love.  It may not be a movie that you will love, but it will stir a lot of thought, respect and appreciation for your current loved one.

Steph’s rating: 8/10

Apron Strings

Apron Strings was directed by Sima Urale and is set in Otahuhu a multicultural town in Auckland, New Zealand. The movie focuses on a few families and individuals that are battling with events from the past, the resulting dysfunction, in a changing town with multiple cultures represented.

Our lives are greatly affected by our past often in negative ways that are not apparent. We all have various levels of dysfunction, some more obvious than others. We all struggle to embrace things outside our culture or comfort zone simply because they are new to us. There are many themes in the movie that we can all recognise and appreciate. One that particularly spoke to me was the Vietnamese shop owner stating “There is no Luck” going on to say that working 16 hours a day is how we got his break, not betting on the horses.

There is hope in the movie but you have to look at the progress made by individuals to see it, it’s not a happy movie and you could be excused for leaving a little down.

No 2

A New Zealand film (2006) written and directed by Toa Fraser that received 2 nominations at the New Zealand Screen Awards and won the “Audience Award” at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival.

As a European Kiwi I appreciate the special aspects of island culture, the laughter, the importance of family, the love of FOOD, and I expected to see this in abundance, Instead we start from a place of dysfunction where the family has let life issues and culture build walls to the point where the main character and family matriarch Nana Maria (Ruby Dee) no longer has cordial contact with her children and she misses the family times of the past where laughter and life were center stage.

Second-Hand Wedding: Celebrating NZ Film

NZ Film is really coming of age. We’ve had some remarkable examples, Sione’s Wedding, The Piano, Whale Rider, Eagle vs Shark and now Secondhand Wedding.

I love the honesty of this film. It depicts typical NZ streets, suburbs and characters. Geraldine Brophy has always been one of NZ’s most likable actress. Here she plays a well-meaning Mum who is a Garage Sell junkie. It’s so delightful, you even convince yourself ‘maybe you wouldn’t mind going to a few yourself’! Geraldine’s character ‘Jill’ is well supported by her husband Brian (Patrick Wilson) and Cheryl her daughter played by Outrageous Fortune’s Holly Shanahan.

The plot is simple, a daughter is reluctant in telling her mum of her engagement as she is afraid that the wedding will turn into a jumble sale. The rest is predictable comedy,but delightful all the same. Highlights of the film include the ‘garage sign’ robber and the consistent references to popular 60’s NZ music icon John Rowles.

Click here to view trailer.

Eagle vs Shark

This film was a lovely quirkey surprise.

Most may probably think it was rubbish, but I actually liked it. It was unconventionial and refreshing. Lily is a lonely, sweet soul, who’s fallen for Jarrod (who knows why!?!) who’s intent on revenge on his childhood bully.

Somehow this film impresses, with its scaristic Nerd humour and charm. Fav scenes include the animal party, Jarrod’s sis and husbands matching jumpsuits and Lily’s bro Duncan. II’s classic, awkward, nerdy comedy, with plenty of sweetness thrown in.

If you’re wanting to see a different film that’s clearly low budget and not trying to be anything its not, this is it.

Steph’s rating: 7/10

Out Of The Blue

This movie really captured the essence of a rural NZ town in the 1990’s. The setting was so beautiful and they really captured the ‘Kiwi’ way of life. I enjoyed how they captured the simpleness of NZ rural life, similar to aspects in the ‘Fastest Indian’.

That’s what made this movie so moving, that such a horrible event could happen in such a small, caring community. I loved the way the director focused on the heroes…the 73yr old granny, the local police man (Karl Urban).

Excellent acting and cinematography.

Steph’s rating: 9/10

Sione’s Wedding

Really enjoyed this movie!I liked how it didn’t try to be an American Comedy.  I especially loved the ‘white guy’ trying to be black.  A touch crude in places, but definitely the best NZ comedy in ages.

King Kong

Saw twice – loved the first hour in which they create all the character development. I went to the movie knowing nothing about the King Kong story – was surprised that there was a great story in it.

Enjoyed all the action and special effects on the Island.

Great movie.