Reviews

As a fan of Amenabar ("Tesis" & "Abre los ojos"), I went to catch this film as soon as it opened in Paris cinemas. He didn't fail to deliver. "The Others" is a traditional, well-crafted horror piece; Amenabar excelled in creating the atmosphere for the film, clever, simple, dark and creepy, with no over-indulgence in special effects unlike some of the recent "horror" films. The setting was just perfect. Nicole Kidman was excellent in executing the role of the lady of the manor. Clearly, this must be one of her best performances. For me, Fionnula Flanagan stood out exceptionally as Mrs. Mills. Having watched her in various TV-movies in the past, I must say that she almost outshone everyone else in the film although she played a subordinate part. The parts of the children were very-well and convincingly portrayed. Amenabar, at only 29, and with just two films to his credit prior to making "The Others" must be lauded for this latest effort. However, my disappointment lies in the revelation at the end of the film; the climax was superbly executed but it reminds one of a very recent "déjà vu"....UNFORTUNATELY. It could have been a little more original. But I still recommend it for the wonderful performances, direction and photography.

When the film was first released in Paris, I didn't even think of going to see it. It did not seem appealing to me though there were some pretty good reviews written about it. Went to see it with a friend months later just as summer was round the corner and was pleasantly surprised....I would recommend it to mundane souls living mundane lives anywhere in the world.....Nothing really original nor intellectual but one can be assured of a pleasant aftertaste.......a good Italian comedy for gloomy days.

One may wonder if "La niña de tus ojos" really deserves all the nominations and awards it got. It is not "Belle époque" and there are some obvious clichés but it's still a very enjoyable film. The colours are vibrant and the black humour is piquant though not everyone (especially the English-speaking audience, and Asian audiences not exposed to this sort of humour) may appreciate it. Of course, the fabulous Penelope Cruz will make one overlook whatever faults there are in the film. As usual, she's brilliant. The interplay of dialogue in Spanish, German and Russian is hilarious. Liked it very much.

I have watched many films from Down Under and tremendously enjoyed most of them. Australian films have

a distinct "flavour"; probably part of it comes from the

accent!!! However, the title of this one did not even attract

me at first but I thought I'd give it a try after reading a short

review of the film in some magazine. And I'm glad I did. In

spite of all the "kitsch", it was certainly a good watch........it

actually left a pleasant aftertaste! In fact, it would not have

been as good without the "kitsch". Well played out by the

actors/actresses.....a memorable one being the piano player/hotel owner with his songs.

A great film that touched me and one of the best films on the Balkan War. It portrays the senselessness of ethnic hatred, religious intolerance, racial violence and the disaster that accompany these, all of which have become daily themes all over the world, especially since the end of the Cold War and the demise of communism.........all told in three stories beautifully interwoven into one.

Milan in the 1950s............"Luna e l'altra" is the tale of an elementary school teacher Luna di Capua (who came to Milan with her father from Naples in post-War Italy) whose dreary life takes a very unexpected turn one stormy night when her shadow separates itself from her and assumes a life of her own. A neo-realist and original tale of fantasy and love skilfully woven on film. Dark brooding scenes contrast with many humorous and enlightening moments, just as the introverted personality of Luna contrasts with the exuberant personality of her "shadow-come-to- life"............The film imbues the audience with a semi- surrealistic feeling of love, euphoria and sacrifice...........

Splendidly filmed on the "rooftop of the world", the film is a breathtaking "human adventure" minus the usual added elements of Hollywood and the Occident. A strong film on pride, endurance and the life of a people and culture not often seen. In sum, the film gives a rare and very much appreciated glimpse into a segment of Himalayan life and traditions. Few, if any, past efforts made along similar lines, live up to this one. The vivid colours and magnificent scenery brings the pristine background to life. Thumbs up for director Eric Valli.