Review of House of Sand and Fog (2003) by Daniel B — 04 May 2009
I bought a copy of this because I'd always wanted to see it. Paid $10 for it - should have rented it for $6. Not because it wasn't a good film but because it was so goddamn depressing I won't watch it again.
Things just spiralled out of control so quickly for the protagonists it was frightening. Both sides of the story were so tragic and yet they couldn't reach a compromise.
The only character I had a problem with was Lester (the cop) who I felt compromised his position of authority way more than was rational. I know there had to be a catalyst for things to spiral the way they did but I just felt this was the weakest aspect of the story.
Kingsley and Connelly were fabulous and made the two sides of the story come alive - one, the woman whose house is sold out from under her due to an administrative bungle and the other, the proud immigrant who sees an opportunity to finally make a life for he and his family in the US. It's nothing personal - but it becomes so, so personal by the end of the film.
Definitely watch it but don't buy a copy thinking you will watch it again!!
This review of House of Sand and Fog (2003) was written by Daniel B on 04 May 2009.
House of Sand and Fog has generally received very positive reviews.
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