Review of House of Sand and Fog (2003) by Reinier M — 11 Nov 2011

Before watching "House" I had lots of lofty expectations. As soon as the end credits start rolling, I thought that I was right, it hadn't got me wrong! Strong social commentaries galore, the film tries to search an answer to this question: could somebody's plight be another's gain or pain? In fact, it depends on multitudes of what-if circumstances and the film tries to find its own answer.

Actually, this poignant story focuses on the vain pursuit of the so-called "American Dream" where sharp & bitter ingredients of morality, greediness, stubborness, rage and retribution are blended into an unavoidable tragedy. Seemingly it is about a moral and psychological battle fought for the possession of a house, wrongfully taken from its owner due to a bureaucratic mix-up. But, I think what it conveys is much more deeper than it seems.

In reality, the "house" here should not be seen as a mere physical location, rather it is an allegory of need for stability, security, prosperity and liberty in a complex, cruel and ruthless outside world. The conflict between Kathy and Behrani makes both parties realize the emptiness of their material lives, and culminates in a series of tragic events after which nobody wins at the end.

Of course, like all good movies the story is not enough. In this sense, "House" depends too much on substance and style at the same time. Without outstanding performances of Ben Kingsley, Jennifer Connelly and Shohreh Aghdashloo, it might have easily degraded into a hokey & pokey soap-opera. As his first cinematic debut, Russian-born director Vadim Perelman does a groovy job by handling the cast in a skillful way that a veteran may find difficult to achieve.

Lastly, in terms of technical aspects, it goes far beyond my expectations: excellent wide-angle and panoramic shots; impressive close-ups by veteran cinematographer Roger Deakins, effectively capturing the most intense feelings of hope, anger, despair, sadness and happiness of both antagonists; and impeccable use of lights & versatile lenses add too much to the moodiness of the film. Strongly recommended!..