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Reviews
Frozen River (2008)
An Important, Satisfying and Moving Film
"Frozen River" is an example of what great indie film making is all about.Instead of special effects and outrageous plot twists, we are shown real people caught up in some of the significant issues of life.
First let me say that the acting by Melissa Leo, and especially Misty Upham is superb. Both characters grow in stature as the film progresses; what seem to be clichés at the start become powerful archetypes. The direction and cinematography cannot be faulted anywhere. Just well done all the way, without drawing special attention to itself. They let the story take preeminence.
"Frozen River" will challenge your way of seeing cultures, borders, and family. It is the type of movie that stays with you. Don't miss it.
The Lovely Bones (2009)
Unexpectedly Good
OK, parts of this are "Ghost Whisperer" writ large, but the fine acting, outstanding cinematography and direction by Peter Jackson make this a worthwhile experience. I had thrown this in my Netflix queue a long time ago, and by the time I got it, I had read some reviews that led me to believe that I would find this boring and trite. Well, it held my interest and was even a bit moving at times. I'm not so much impressed by the story it told as by the overall impact of the various elements that successfully came together to make this film work.
This film is occasionally tagged as a "supernatural thriller" , or as being particularly gory. Those seeking that type of entertainment will surely be disappointed. In fact, once one gets past the subject matter, it is to all effects a family film.