HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG

[FeverDog420]

http://www.joblo.com/upcomingmovies/2003/posters/posterhouseofsandandfog.jpg

The plot: Massoud Amir Behrani, an Iranian immigrant, has spent most of his savings trying to enhance his daughter's chances of a good marriage. Once she is married, he spends the remaining funds on a house at an auction, unwittingly putting himself and his family in the middle of a legal tussle with the house's former owner. What begins as a legal struggle turns into a personal confrontation, with tragic results.

Starring: Jennifer Connelly, Ben Kingsley, Ron Eldard, Frances Fisher

Directed by Vadim Perelman (debut)


Howcum a movie about an Iranian has Western stars headlining?

Opens December 19 in limited release.

[Moviefan1234]

This looks like a really solid film to me. The acting is sure to be top notch and the premise is intriguing. I think it's a good possibility that we could see some nominations in the acting department for this movie.

[moviemuffin]

I'm really glad to see this particular facet of racism getting a bit of coverage. Looks marvelous.

My husband and I are going to an advance screening together. I think we may take the kids just because this issue touches them. We had some really negative stuff happen after 9/11.

[Fergus]

On Wednesday, I did have the special privilege of seeing a Private Screening of the film. And this is my experience/review of the movie that I posted in the Upcoming forum two nights ago...

Let me do a personal background check...I have been excited to see the film since I first heard about it nearly a year ago. The title singularly caught my attention, then, so did the stars casted in the film. Ten months or so later, we get an amAzing trailer, marred (to me) only by that layered composed shot at the end, and also a stunning poster (my second fave this year behind Big Fish). However, it was exciting that it might turn out to be one of the better films this year. But you shouldn't judge a movie by its trailer, so I didn't and kept my expectations low.

And there I was at the theater, making it just in time for the movie to begin. The entire seating capacity in the theater was about 284 seats, and of that, the theater was 2/3 full; my estimation. But this was a private screening, so I mean, who wouldn't want to come see it early, even just to see it early?

Personally, this is the most important film I've seen this year. It deals with human issues I could write a whole entire communication paper on, but I won't. First thing you moviegoers must understand is that this film is not a thriller by any means at all, it sorta seems that way in the trailer. Its more a domestic drama dealing with conflicts of upmost importance, and also the fact that it could happen to anyone. From here on out, I'll just list my loves and hates for this important flick...

LOVES...
- Ben Kingsley deserves an oscar nomination for his flawless portrayal of an arab.
- Jennifer Connelly proves that her performances are by no means a fluke. And those who whine about her crying scenes in almost everything she does can shove it because this film warrants her emotion, and its essential to her character. Don't just create some inane reason to turn her acting into a bad move, just because she likes to cry. What if this was the first movie you saw her in, you wouldn't give a crap would you? I'd ask why you think she cries too much, your answer might be "cause she does in every movie she makes," and I'd reply, "oh, so you have a Connelly fetish do you, pervo!" No offense to anyone, I'm just ragging on some comment I heard, but unsure of where this was...;)
- Shohreh Aghdashloo surprised me. I have heard little buzz about her performance, but I didn't expect her to stand out as she did. I wouldn't say she's worthy of a supporting actress nomination, since her screen time was limited, but I was indeed surprised by her.
- The cinematography had my mouth dripping with saliva. By far the best I've seen this year. One amazing shot after another. I'm rooting for Roger Deakins at the Oscars. Go you!
- I got very emotionally attached to every main character except Ron Eldard (I just don't like him much). And if you do, its possible the film experience will be that much more powerful for you.
- It became possible that the film would eventually feel contrived, but that never happened, way to keep things together!
- The acting is sensational and the subject matter deals with issues rarely seen in the cinema, actually, I can't recall a film that is even remotely connected with this one. Makes for seriously compelling viewing.
- Don't get me wrong, just because this film is a drama doesn't mean it's boring at all. So much is going on that its exhausting once the film ends. The film triggers so many emotions and thoughs that I felt drained and tired once it came to an end.
- JoBlo disliked the end, and I can totally see where he's coming from, but I thought the end made the film escape possible pretention, and it ended the story, resolving it complete with consequences to actions, more draining, but it made the movie, without it, I don't think I'd have appreciated it as much, as a whole.


HATES...
- I'm beginning to hate James Horner. Although it wasn't immensely distracting, I noticed it in one scene that totally hurt it, only for a few secs though. The worst thing about the movie, but it's not that bad.
- I didn't want to admit this, because I really want to make this movie sound great, but it needed some editing in places. I mean, ALL the information and nearly every scene in this movie should've been there in order for the story to work effectively, but just as the climax was nearing its end, preparing for the story's resolution, I felt the "its running too long" alarm go off in my head (or perhaps it was just my need to visit the lavatory). The resolution was needed, so I'm torn about my "overlength" quibble. Perhaps the first half of the film could've used some trimming, though I'm not sure where.
- He's not a terrible actor, but he's just average, and alongside Kingsley and Connelly, Ron Eldard just doesn't measure up. He doesn't ruin the film, but I wished they would've gotten someone better, because he plays a major role in the film.
- I have some quibs about the dialogue. It isn't downright awful, but there were some cheesy lines especially in scenes that develop Connelly and Eldard's relationship. Or, perhaps had they been delivered differently they wouldn't have been as cheesy. But, I'd rather take the actor's defense and blame it on the screenplay. ;)


After the screening had concluded, a woman stood outside the theater with a pad, paper, and pen writing down the thoughts of the moviewatchers. Everybody seemed to think it was really good, though a few thought it was really depressing. Then, the last person to exit the theater was this small guy about 5 foot standing with another guy about 6'4" or so. The smaller guy immediately reaped the film. First he said how true it is that after an actor wins an oscar they immediately churn out bad movies, and he concluded that the film was "just awful." I stood there and asked him why, he replied that the film was "pretentious," "it ran on too long," and "it was full of bathos." Now, he didn't care to elaborate or make any direct criticisms to events in the film, he just threw out words that criticized it badly. Initially, I didn't understand what he meant by "bathos," so I looked it up..."An abrupt, unintended transition in style from the exalted to the commonplace, producing a ludicrous effect. An anticlimax." Personally, I don't see any evidence of an anticlimax or ludicrous events taking place in the end of the film. It made complete sense to me the actions each character made. When the guy making that comment walked away, I said to the "comment taking lady," "what did that guy mean by bathos?" She didn't know, so I said, "you know what, he's pretentious, making his statements sound more important than they really were!" I wish I could've understood what the guy said so I could argue with him how I thought he was wrong, because now I see what he meant....eck!

And so my night ended, I exited the movie house smiling happily that the movie turned out great, but sadly, many mainstreamers are not going to agree with me. I suppose you have to be able to digest depressing stories, and commentary on human actions and emotions, in order to appreciate how good a film like this was. And if you don't like it, I'd like to hear your comments, just no inane comments please. ;)

[Fergus]

It said it opens wide on December 26th, according to the pass I used.

[Jon Lyrik]

I heard Jennifer Connelly has a nude sex scene in it.

As long as it isn't another ass-to-assing, that's more than enough a reason to see this.

But otherwise, it looks like really cool film. And it has Ben Kingsley.

[HHH123007]

Originally posted by Jon Lyrik
I heard Jennifer Connelly has a nude sex scene in it.

Not to sound like an idiot or anything....but that sentence just made me want to see this movie.

Oh, and Fergus liked it.....

[thompsoncory]

I want to see this very badly. It looks outstanding and Jennifer Connelly looks to give an excellent performance. But from the trailer, I don't know if I'm the only one who feels this way, but I HATE Ben Kingsley's character. He seems like such a pretentious asshole from every ounce of publicity this movie is getting, so I am rooting for Connelly in this movie.

[Fisting Ackbar]

Originally posted by Jon Lyrik
As long as it isn't another ass-to-assing, that's more than enough a reason to see this.

What's wrong with ass to assing?

And hasn't Jennifer Connelly done many other nude scenes in the past?

Either way, I'm seeing this.

[Jon Lyrik]

Originally posted by Fisting Ackbar
What's wrong with ass to assing?

You haven't seen Requiem for a Dream, have you?

[Damned Martian]

Originally posted by Fisting Ackbar
And hasn't Jennifer Connelly done many other nude scenes in the past? What's wrong with another one? :D

[Fisting Ackbar]

Originally posted by Jon Lyrik
You haven't seen Requiem for a Dream, have you?

Yeah I have, but depending on the context in which ass to assing is performed, it's not always a bad thing.

What's wrong with another one? :D

Nothing, but it's not like many of us haven't seen her naked before.

[Jon Lyrik]

Originally posted by Fisting Ackbar
Yeah I have, but depending on the context in which ass to assing is performed, it's not always a bad thing.

In that context, yes. That's what I meant, maybe I should be less vague.

[blankpage]

It looks pretty solid to me. I'm not dying to see it like some of the other schmoes, but it could really surprise me. I haven't read the book, but would like to. Maybe I should look into that....

[ANavissi500]

Originally posted by thompsoncory
I want to see this very badly. It looks outstanding and Jennifer Connelly looks to give an excellent performance. But from the trailer, I don't know if I'm the only one who feels this way, but I HATE Ben Kingsley's character. He seems like such a pretentious asshole from every ounce of publicity this movie is getting, so I am rooting for Connelly in this movie.

I think he is quite the opposite. He has had a tough life and has given his all to provide for his family. I think he is just defending what is his.

[Strider]

The film looks great, and I've been hearing many great things about it as well. I loved the trailer for the film, it really sets up the film nicely. Hopefully, this flick will come to my area... if so, I'll definitely give it a look.

I just hope Jennifer Connelly doesn't cry in this film. It seems like that's all her performances consists of.... ;)

She's still a very good actress nevertheless.... she was fantastic in Requiem. And I almost forgot to mention, she's quite attractive.

[ilovemovies]

Looks fantastic! Can't wait to see it!

I LOVE Jennifer Connelly!

[chinton]

Just finished reading the book. very heavy and depressing

but fantastic. Also for all t he people "well w hy would it be interesting its just about a fight over a house" then youre wrong. Its really about so much more than that and you wouldnt believe the things these people do over a house .

[anakinsrise]

I may see this but i heard on Howard Stern Jennifers nude scene isnt that great lol

[Slim]

Originally posted by anakinsrise
I may see this but i heard on Howard Stern Jennifers nude scene isnt that great lol

You don't really get to see anything due to the camera angle and the lighting in another scene.

[vtadave]

I heard Jennifer Connelly has a nude sex scene in it.


Sounds like good jerk off material. Man she has nice meaty tits!

[Jon Lyrik]

Originally posted by vtadave
Sounds like good jerk off material. Man she has nice meaty tits!

*best Dr. Evil impression* Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight.

[MadsenOMC]

Chinton, I just finished the book as well. Less than an hour ago. Amazing, isn't it? Should be one hell of a movie. The only negative reviews I have read fault it for being a downer. I think that is so simplistic and short-sighted. Yes, it's a downer, but if that's all you see it as, you're really missing out. Assuming the movie is faithful to the book anyway.

[ilovemovies]

I thought the December 26 was a limited release, but apperantly it is going wide. YAY!! I'll actually get to see this! I can't wait. Now that I've seen LOTR: ROTK this is my most anticipated movie.

[ColinM]

Thanks for those comments, Fergus! Great stuff!

I finished the novel of this one not long ago and House of Sand and Fog instantly became my most anticipated of the year. The novel was one of the better ones I've ever read, and part of me thinks the movie couldn't possibly get into the heads of the characters and make us care about them like the book did, but reviews have been great so I'm not going to let it worry me. Ben Kingsley looks great, and so does the ultrasexy, amazingly talented, God-do-I-want-to-marry-her Jennifer Connelly. The only thing that worries me is Ron Eldard's performance. Every review I've read, including Fergus's comments, cites him as a weak point in the film. But that won't stop me from checking this one out, that's for damn sure...

[ColinM]

It was every bit as great as I could have hoped it would be. I'll write up my thoughts another time...

10/10

[Fisting Ackbar]

I was surprised how much of a downer it was in the end, but I was very impressed by it all. Both Connelly and Kingsley had their motivations and I found myself rooting for either of them. A couple little flaws - mostly concerning the infamous Ron Eldard character - but a definite contender for my "Top 10 of the year"

[blankpage]

It's playing in the area. 'Tis good news as I am getting anxious to checking this one out.

[Sad man]

I really enjoyed reading your review Fergus, nice work. This movie looks pretty good. It has a nice cast, a good poster, interesting plot and good reviews. And ColinM loved it, so it had to be at least "good". I will see it as soon as I can.

[flowrchild]

So far I'm the only one who hates this movie, eh? :D

[flowrchild]

My mom loved the book, and insisted on taking me to see the movie last night. After seeing the disappointing "Triplets Of Belleville" the night before, I was looking for a movie to surpass my expectations and blow me away. This did neither.

What we have here is a beautifully shot movie, with actors that are far better than the movie deserves them to be. Ben Kingsley turns in possibly one of the best performances of his career, as the stubborn arrogant father/husband trying to make a better life for his family in America. There is a certain scene where his acting just blew me away, and those who saw the film will know which one I mean. The acting of the wife was also very effective, and Jennifer Connelly impressed me too with her portrayal of a wounded desperate woman fighting to get her life back. The weakest link was Ron Eldard, who was good but not up to par with the rest of the cast.

That being said, this movie was like an overstuffed train wreck heading right for my head. I enjoy a good drama or tragedy every now and then, but I can't stand when movies are so dismal and hopeless and mean-spirited for essentially no reason. It's the same problems I had with the movie "Irreversible". While it was powerful and traumatizing, it didn't strike me as a particularly good movie, but more one that relied on twists and turns and shock value and bashing you over the head with its lack of mercy. Ditto on "Looking for Mr Goodbar". Occasionally a movie like "Requiem For A Dream" comes along that is tragic, effective and truly a masterpiece. It's funny too, because there was even a brief scene in "House Of Sand & Fog" that seemed like a complete homage to the movie, Jennifer Connelly standing-on-the end-of-a-pier-looking-hopeless, and all.

My main problem with this movie is that there was just nobody likeable, nobody I could relate to, nobody who could suck up their pride and do the right thing, and nothing but tragedy everywhere when I felt it didn't add up to that. The ending occured and my mom was crying and I was throwing my hands up in frustration. It truly felt tacked on to me, like it was there just to bash me over the head with its moral message. Tragedy simply for tragedy's sake. I don't care for movies that do this, as they make me leave the theater feeling cheated or robbed or disrespected. If the build-up doesn't work, then it doesn't pay off in the end.

In my opinion, this movie is a work of sheer frustration and lack of compassion. Ugliness, horror, and the bottom of the barrel for human morality. It appears my fellow schmoes enjoyed this movie, and I am glad it impacted you the way it did, but it left me wanting a gun and an oven to stick my head inside.

4/10

[the saw is family]

i saw this film yesterday, and it was extremly powerful and touching, it's currently my number one film of the year, but i still have to see about 3 other films before i can complete my list. lets see ben kingsley is beyond great in the film, it's just amazing to see him on the screen, his performancre is flawless. jennifer connelly is great as well, i never forced myself to see a beautiful mind, so i guess reqeuiem for a dream is the last perfomance i have to compare it to, and she is just as good in this film. i felt ron eldard was good in the film is well. to me the film was not about morally bankrupt people. to me it was about people who are intrinsically(sp?) good people but are seriously flawed, i didn't feel it was tragedy just for tragedy's sake. while the film was sad and depressing it was still to me beautiful and touching at the same time, as of now the years best in my opinion.

10/10

[Kim_EZ]

8/10

Some parts of the film were bad (they didn't steal the house really), but it had GREAT performances.

And this didn't take place in present days right? Look at the car models, Super NES poster, and the computer in the son's room...

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by Kim_EZ
And this didn't take place in present days right? Look at the car models, Super NES poster, and the computer in the son's room...


Hehe, I thought the same thing after I noticed those items. :p



I saw the filmy tonight, just got back. Not quite sure of a rating, but I'll probably come back later with a mini-review and a grade, but I must say this had excellent performances.

[flowrchild]

Random question-- but why did they eliminate the line from the trailer in the movie?

I remember seeing the trailer and seeing Jennifer Connely say:

"I am not a complicated woman; I am just really good at complicating things"

That was a good line, but it's nowhere to be found in the movie.

I hate when they do that.

[Rated R]

Originally posted by flowrchild
So far I'm the only one who hates this movie, eh? :D

Well I haven't seen it yet flowr, but I think it looks awful. Sure it might be well shot and well acted, but it looks like a snorefest. Plus the subject matter is just not interesting at all to me. I'll watch it on video...

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by Rated R
Well I haven't seen it yet flowr, but I think it looks awful. Sure it might be well shot and well acted, but it looks like a snorefest. Plus the subject matter is just not interesting at all to me. I'll watch it on video...


That's exactly how I felt, R. I was upset going into this because I wanted to see Big Fish instead, and I thought this looked really boring. But wow, it just really surprised me. It never felt tedious, and I was never bored. As Fergus said, there's so much going on that it's almost an emotionally exhausting experience by the end. But I hope this doesn't raise your hopes too high, I went in with very low expectations and it's possibly my favorite film of the year, I hope you enjoy it too.

[Rated R]

If I had the opportunity to watch it I would...but my theatre sucks balls and I do not have said opportunity. I will watch any movie once, I just don't think this one looks good...hope I am wrong though, and I hope you...Shaw, are right...for your sake ;)

[moviemuffin]

Once again my hopes are dashed by an ending so relentless and unwilling to trust its audience that it feels like corporal punishment rather than a conclusion.

I got the bird imagery. I didn't need to be beaten over the head with it. I got the irony of intention and actualization. One ending would have been outstanding, thanks.

[Deckard_HR]

Hello everyone...this is my first post on this board. Anyway, I caught a sneak preview of "House of Sand and Fog" about 2 or 3 weeks ago and found it to be a pretty downbeat expereince. The ending is exactly what Joblo said in his review. Maybe just a bit too dramatic...too downbeat. Overall though I felt that the performances were very strong and while the sub-plot about Connolly and the affair with Ron Eldard was unnecessary...everything else delivered a very strong message.
6/10

[ColinM]

I guess I shouldn't be surprised at how many people have a problem with the ending, but I don't really see how it could have ended differently. I suppose they could have worked it out, but that really would have defeated the point of the movie. I think the ending was realistic. It seems unlikely, but unlikely (and tragic) things happen in real life every day. I once heard a quote that said "In real life, anything can happen. In the movies, everything has to be realistic." Vladmin Perelman could've taken the easy way out and changed the ending to one that would be easier for audiences to comprehend, but I think he did the right thing in keeping to the book.

[RicochetShaw]

Originally posted by Deckard_HR
. Overall though I felt that the performances were very strong and while the sub-plot about Connolly and the affair with Ron Eldard was unnecessary...
6/10

****SPOILERS*********







Unnecessary? How so? If it weren't for the affair, the son wouldn't have been shot, and pretty much no climax would have happened. Because he had an affair with her, he cared for her and stirred up trouble with Kingsley's family, it's not a sub-plot, it's a major point of the film. Without it, it would have been a completely different movie, and they could've ended it after 45 minutes, with no climax.

[ANavissi500]

SPOILERS - including ones that reveal the ending!!! WATCH OUT!
*
*
*
*
I went into this film with really high expectations, so I was disappointed. This does not mean that the film was mediocre, on the contrary, the acting by Connelly, Agdashloo, and especially Kingsley delivered amazing performances. Eldard, meanwhile, was a poor choice to play Lester Burdon - I think some of this may have to deal with the fact that I did not like his character, or his character's motivations. I felt NO sympathy for him, unlike the other characters.

What I Loved...
The 3 performances
The complexity of the main characters - both Kinglsey and Connelly were ambiguously protagonistic and antagonistic. There was no clear evil in this film (except in my opinion Eldard). I felt at times that Connelly was wrong about trying to get back the house and that Kingsley was wrong about trying to keep the house. The end of the movie was arguably the best ending of a movie this year - It was so wraught with emotion, especially as Connelly was trying to take the bag off of Kingsley. There were also these great emotional subtleties, especially when Agdashloo knows her fate without speaking a word and when the hand of the surgeon placed upon Kinglsey's shoulder as he is praying. Both of these moments transcended dialogue.
What I Hated...
Why did Esmahel pull the gun on the cop?!? The plan would have worked without him doing so. Also, I didnt care about the whole subplot about Lester and his kids. That was too Hallmark movie of the week for me. His wife was being a total bitch by using her kids as weapons (even though she was in the right) On top og Lester's subplot, everything he did seemed erratic. He had JUST MET Connelly and he gave up his family, his job, etc. Was he doing it for the money? Was he doing it for her? By the end I didnt care. He was in jail - I was happier. Also, this movie was too fade happy and too blatant symbolism happy (the bird, the fog)

Overall, I would give this movie a 7/10.

[AppleHuntr]

Originally posted by MadsenOMC
Chinton, I just finished the book as well. Less than an hour ago. Amazing, isn't it? Should be one hell of a movie. The only negative reviews I have read fault it for being a downer. I think that is so simplistic and short-sighted. Yes, it's a downer, but if that's all you see it as, you're really missing out. Assuming the movie is faithful to the book anyway.

I'm about 1/2 way through the book and I cant decide whether or not to finish it before I see the movie tonight. I hear there's a killer ending (not sure whether theres a pun in there or not) and think I'd rather let the movie surprise me. I do plan on finishing the book though. Hope both are as good as people are saying, the book is great so far.

[MovieMan75]

Originally posted by ColinM
I guess I shouldn't be surprised at how many people have a problem with the ending, but I don't really see how it could have ended differently. I suppose they could have worked it out, but that really would have defeated the point of the movie. I think the ending was realistic. It seems unlikely, but unlikely (and tragic) things happen in real life every day. I once heard a quote that said "In real life, anything can happen. In the movies, everything has to be realistic." Vladmin Perelman could've taken the easy way out and changed the ending to one that would be easier for audiences to comprehend, but I think he did the right thing in keeping to the book.

The thing is, though, comfortably solving their differences would have been unrealistic for the personalities and depressed states of minds those characters were in. What happened seemed incredibly natural to me. It wasn't unlikely at all. If Connelly's character had accepted Kingsley's character's offer, it woul have made no sense.

[Deckard_HR]

Originally posted by RicochetShaw
****SPOILERS*********

Unnecessary? How so? If it weren't for the affair, the son wouldn't have been shot, and pretty much no climax would have happened. Because he had an affair with her, he cared for her and stirred up trouble with Kingsley's family, it's not a sub-plot, it's a major point of the film. Without it, it would have been a completely different movie, and they could've ended it after 45 minutes, with no climax.

Here was my official review, in it I mentioned the unnecessary sub-plot thing too, but in fact...I didn't mean to sound like that. It was more Ron Eldard's performance...and how stupid I thought his character was...especially in the end, locking them in the bathroom and all. Anyways, here is my official review...

Starring: Jennifer Connelly, Ben Kingsley
PROS: Cast, simplistic story with serious themes
CONS: Slow moving, awful ending
Seen on: December 17th, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. *

What was the true point of this movie…I’m not quite sure. Was it to deliver a message about ethics and pride? Or just to show that some people’s ignorance affects everyone around them…whether they realize it or not. Whether you like the movie or not, you’ll feel sick to your stomach as the end credits begin to roll.
Jennifer Connelly plays her character as a sadder version of her Betty Ross character in the much better “Hulk”. She is moapy and crying all the time…and she goes through so many dramatic, tear jerking scenes that its hard to believe she could handle it. Maybe THAT’S what makes her a great actress. Or it could be that even though this movie would lose a race against a snail, she makes it marginally watchable- that takes talent. Ben Kingsley is a powerful presence as the stubborn Col. who buys her house. The scenes between him and his family are far more engaging than those between Connelly and the deputy she falls for- in an unnecessary subplot.
The saddest thing about this movie was that the more engaging and interesting characters are the ones ridiculously dealt with in the end. The ending of this movie will make you want to scream. For having sat through the movie or for actually getting into the characters in the first place. But it isn’t all bad; there are scenes that enthrall true emotion. Either Connelly sticking her foot into some nails or watching a certain event occur. Both will make your stomach turn for different reasons. This is a movie of many emotions…of course, not all are good.
“House of Sand and Fog” is a very slow moving melodrama about ethics and pride. You’ll either walk out…or be enthralled. Of course, you could be with me and be standing right in the middle of the two.
6/10

[ColinM]

Originally posted by MovieMan75
The thing is, though, comfortably solving their differences would have been unrealistic for the personalities and depressed states of minds those characters were in. What happened seemed incredibly natural to me.

I totally agree.

[AppleHuntr]

House of Sand and Fog 8/10

The definition of a "downer", HOSAF goes beyond the initial melodrama because it gives its characters time to breathe and develop (with the exception of Lester, in the book which I have yet to finish, his characters intentions are more clear and how he did what he did is more understandable). The acting is great, Kingsley and Connelly are a great pair to watch even though the time they share on screen is minimal. Supporting characters are strong. To me Eldard shouldn't be faulted, he was decent, his character just should of been developed more. But I do agree with him being overshadowed by his stronger co-stars.

SPOILERS!!!!!!
I thought when Lester locked them in the bathroom it got a tad ridiculous. The scene of Esmail's death is tragic, but the "My name is not Ishmail, it's Esmail!" was too dramatic. But I did not have any other problem with the ending, it unfolded powerfully and was understandable. I heard more than a few people crying in the theater. What he did to his wife was initially horrible but his intentions make it almost considerate. Also, there were a few too many "pretty shots". Meaning fog, fog and more fog. Move on with the story. Thar isnt a spoiler but the spoiler section is also the negative part of the review, which I guess means that movie fumbled more towards the end, but I still really liked it
END OF SPOILERS


Overall a strong film and worth a look.


In Joblo's review he notes that Kathy shouldve been given notice that she was being evicted. Her eviction/auction notices were in the mail she did not open. This was only briefly touched upon in the movie but explained more thoroughly in the book.

[Alecc Bracero]

This movie blew! The trailer for it intrigued me, but in the end, it blew! All of the performances were good, it's just the story that got fucked up. I was very interested in the movie in the beginning, especially when Jennifer Connelly stepped on the 4x4 with the nails sticking out. That shit's gotta hurt. It got stupid when Ron Eldard got more involved. Jennifer Connelly must have that SUPER-NANA to make him risk his career to help her after such a short period of time knowing her. He's going through a rough divorce and he just wants to get himself involved on some next shit. DUMB-ASS! Ben Kingsley was good as usual, especially for keeping a straight face talking to his son while his son is taking a shit. That was probably the longest unintentional laugh I had all year. And the ending, just plain stupid. * star. MAH!!!!!!!!!!

[MovieMan75]

Originally posted by dingostyle
I was very interested in the movie in the beginning, especially when Jennifer Connelly stepped on the 4x4 with the nails sticking out. That shit's gotta hurt.

Speaking of which, how did they do that anyway? What kind of movie magic made that happen? That foot looked awfully realistic.

[ilovemovies]

God! Even when she's drunk and depressed Jennifer Connelly is so utterly GORGEOUS! Great movie too. With great performances from the entire cast. I didn't have a problem with Eldard. I thought he was good too. And his plotline though not really developed was really sad. This is most definately one of the best films of 2003.

[SockemLova]

Originally posted by Jon Lyrik
You haven't seen Requiem for a Dream, have you?

Yeah I saw this movie twice, whenever I see the trailers for House of Sand and fog I think of connoly doing some mad heroin.

[tbone]

Originally posted by ilovemovies
God! Even when she's drunk and depressed Jennifer Connelly is so utterly GORGEOUS! Great movie too. With great performances from the entire cast. I didn't have a problem with Eldard. I thought he was good too. And his plotline though not really developed was really sad. This is most definately one of the best films of 2003.

Connelly is just so beautiful. I was shocked when EW said he deglammed herself for the role. She was just as hot. Anyway it is a great perfomance that if it does not get nominated I will be quite upset at the academy.

[The Other]

I saw HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG today and I really liked it. The performances were EXCELLENT. Especially Aghdashloo, who gave the most affecting performance and also my favorite supporting female performance of 2003, so far. I was actually hesitant about seeing it, then Colin gave it a 10/10 and became his favorite movie of the year, so I was more intrested because our tastes are so similar. And I was surprised, it was great, actually. Surpassed my low-ish expectation.

Now, the only thing is that my favorite movie of the year, Lost in Translation (10/10) is only a 6/10 for Colin, who was disappointed. :( ;)

HOSAF gets an 8/10 or 9/10 from me.

[idealdiscountdude]

House Of Sand and Fog has been on my must see list since I heard about the film over a year ago. This is an "Ideal" movie if there ever was one. Im a sucker for a film when it gets me completely, utterly, emotionally involved. That is what makes a satisfying film in my humble opinion.

***********SPOILER WARNING***********

The film is probably the most "realistic" film of 2003. Many may disagree and state that the film is just one tragic event after another, but I beg to differ.

Unlike 21 Grams which left me cold and practically unemotionally involved, House Of Sand and Fog does the opposite. It offers us very real characters. Flawed human beings whom are good people who like everybody else make decisions, both good and bad.

House of Sand and Fog tells the story of the very proud Colonel Massoud Behrani an Iranian sent out of Iran for fear of his and his families lives many years ago. Behrani, a former respected and wealthy Colonel in Iran finds things much different in America. He works menial jobs in order to support his family and to try and maintain the high social status he had in Iran. His social status and family's welfare is of greatest importance to him and thus, ashamed of his work in America, lets practically everybody believe that he is still of hugh status in the United States.

An ad in the paper for a house with an ocean view up for auction is a means in which Behrani sees to secure financial stability for his family. So he buys the house for a rather small price and thus intends to sell it for about 4 times as much as he paid. The only thing is is that unbeknownst to Behrani at the sale of the house, the original owner, Kathy was unjustly evicted for not paying a tax she shouldn't have had to pay. However it is Kathy's own fault as she has been wallowing in her own sorrow for the past few months inside the house and neglected her mail.

Thus the battle over the house ensues and leads up to a tragic, emotionally draining finale.

As Behrani, Ben Kingsley gives the single most dramatic male performance of 2003. He is riveting as the Colonel, a man so proud and desperate to reclaim the social status that he once had and has since eluded him in America. Behrani is a strong, admirable man, but a flawed one. His Iranian roots are deeply planted inside of him an dit is visible with his sometimes rather shocking behavior to women. In Iran, women are not supposed to stand-up to their husbands nor oppose them. In one scene he slaps his wife when she opposes him and his treatment of Kathy when she shows up at the house and makes a scene is rather violent.

As Kathy, Jennifer Connelly is superb. Why Connelly hasn't been getting that much Awards attention is beyond me. She is electrifying. Kathy is a recovering alcoholic, a woman who lies to her mother about her non-existent relationship with a man, a woman who is so insecure and unhappy with herself that she does not want to disrupt anybody elses happiness....that is until she loses the house, the only thing she has left to call her own. The house represents not just her only means of security, but her father, whom left it to her and her brother when he died. In one scene Kathy has a great line of dialogue that goes along the line of this: "my father spent 30 years getting this house together, its only taken me 8 months to mess it up".

The most subtle yet emotion-filled performance IMO comes from Shoreh Aghdashloo ias Behrani's wife Nadi. Nadi is a woman deeply rooted in the ways of women in her home country, She doesn't speak often but her face says it all. A woman who has her entire faith placed into her husband and she raraely second guesses him. Aghdashloo is absolutely astounding.

On the other end of the spectrum is Ron Eldard as Lester. Eldard is the films only weak link and when I say weak, I stress it. Eldard is totally out of place here. He, I found gave a bland, emotionless, and uninspired performance. And his character Lester I found epitomized just how ignorant many Westerners can be. Lester is a man who leaves his wife and kids for Kathy. He abuses his position of power as a cop to intimidate Behrani and his family with the threat of deportation. A man so not in tune with himself that he would give everything he has up for a woman, other than his wife. Lester, IMO, is the least likeable character in the film and honestly the most troubled and insecure of the bunch. Kathy is a recovering alcoholic yet he continues to drink in front of her and doesn't try and stop her when she has her first drink in 3 years.

Vadim Perelman's direction is superb. Its not overtly showy, but it is rather suttle. The film is character driven and he showcases it perfectly.

The cinematography is beautiful, especially the emotional shot of Behrani and Nadi on the "widows walk" near the end of the film.

Many have complained about the finale of the film, but I on the otherhand found it suited the film perfectly. The film is about choices and the consequences of them. A film about flawed human beings, about ignorance and intolerance. A film simply about people and the ways in which they decide to live their lives.

The finale is tragic no doubt but it was perfect. Kathy's suicide attempts showcase just how low she feels. They show us how troubled the young woman is but troubled in the sense that she chose this path to some degree be it diretcly or indirectly. Lester's decision to hold the Behrani's hostage shows just how scared the man actually is. He is willing to risk his life for a woman, a woman whom he hardly knows. He is such an insecure man that he gets together with a troubled woman and showcases his insecurities through threats of violence. Behrani's decision to not sell back the house to Kathy for wht he paid for it is about a way in which he can find financial stability for his family. His decision to take in Kathy is because he sees a bit of him in her. Nadi's generosity throughout the film towards Kathy is because she truly is a genuine, caring woman.

The house itself is metaphorical. I found it to represent both security (financial for Behrani, comfort for Kathy) and human beings themselves. Like a house our bodies are shells. It is what is inside of all of us that makes us a person. It is about the people inside a house that make it a home. The decisions we make define what our lives will be like. The way's in which people live inside a house define what type of home it is.

The fog on the otherhand is a prevalent sight throughout the film. It represnts the characters flaws, the repurcussions of our decisions. Fog can roll in on the sunniest of days, slowly creeping up on us...just like the the effects of our decisions. If the fog builds up so badly, you can hardly see anything. If the effects of one's decisions accumulate and begin to overflow, one can lose their cool and act in ways they normally never would. House Of Sand and Fog is about real-life, one that we as movie-goers can take with us. We can relate in many ways to the characters, we all possess some of their attributes, That's what I loved about the film. Through all the tragedy, you can still relate to the characters.

I must admit that with the exception of LOTR:ROTK, House Of Sand and Fog is the only other film to have me in tears. I felt emotionally drained after experiencing it. The film is a downer yes, but life can be a downer. The film essentially looks at no more than a few weeks of these characters lives and I know that I have have had shitty days for weeks on end before.

House Of Sand and Fog is a riveting motion picture. One of the most important films of 2003 with 3 of the years best performances. The film only has one negative and that is Ron Eldard's performance which was pretty lifeless and thus I can't quite give the film an A as his character and performance were pivotal to the story.

A-

Kingsley, Connelly and Aghdashloo are all award worthy.

[The Engraved]

How in the world could Jennifer Connelly not have been nominated for best actress? :confused: What kind of expired glue were those who nominated sniffing? Oh well, hopefully people who see this movie in the years to come will see how great she was. Ben Kingsley deserves his nod and I will not be disappointed if either he or Penn wins best actor. Shohreh Aghdashloo also deserves her nomination. Her performance as the dutiful wife in good and bad times is subtle but moving. Out of all the characters, she was the one you wanted or thought should have a happy ending (a happy life). (If she does win, I hope whoever announces her name can finally get it right.) The only flaw I saw with this movie was with the performance of Ron Eldard. He seemed to be stiff, awkward, as though he thought he was performing in another movie (perhaps he thought he was in a blackhawk down prequel. My brother loves that flick). 9 1/2
Thank you for your time. :)

[Annie Hall]

Egh. I left this movie feeling a total blank. I've been overly-emotional of late, nearly crying Big Fish, and then sobbing in In America on my second go and 21 Grams. And yet, this left me cold. Vaguely pretentious, and just not quite right, I can't put my finger on why House... was bad. It wasn't bad. But it just wasn't good.

Jennifer Connelly gives one of her best performances to date, and Ben Kingsley was good (but not as overwhelmingly brilliant as I know that man is capable of). To me, this entire movie felt like background noise. A backdrop to the talents of the two leads. I found Connelly's story genuinely interesting...but Kingsley's story was too vague for some reason. I didn't know what to make of him or his family, and it all seemed to be just off enough that it threw the movie.

I can't articulate it well (as you obviously at this point realize), but, I found this movie to be mediocre at best. Something to rewatch at 2am on Cable.

[MadsenOMC]

I think Kingsley's story is pretty simple. He is a Persian ex-military official. His family was very powerful and wealthy there. They had to flee and came to America. He wants to return his family to their old ways. He works two jobs to make ends meet. But they are losing money because they maintain a nice lifestyle. So to make money he wants to get into real estate. Buy the house and sell it for a large profit. Pride and appearance is huge for this guy.

[Annie Hall]

Originally posted by MadsenOMC
I think Kingsley's story is pretty simple. He is a Persian ex-military official. His family was very powerful and wealthy there. They had to flee and came to America. He wants to return his family to their old ways. He works two jobs to make ends meet. But they are losing money because they maintain a nice lifestyle. So to make money he wants to get into real estate. Buy the house and sell it for a large profit. Pride and appearance is huge for this guy.

I understood the story, but, I think if they'd not just implied it and had some way for him to tell it, as Connelly did her story, it would've given it some extra oomph.

[Kim_EZ]

Originally posted by Annie Hall
I understood the story, but, I think if they'd not just implied it and had some way for him to tell it, as Connelly did her story, it would've given it some extra oomph.

That's what's wrong with a lot of movies today. They have to tell everything. And I understood Ben's character's backstory fine without being told directly on screen.

[Annie Hall]

Originally posted by Kim_EZ
That's what's wrong with a lot of movies today. They have to tell everything. And I understood Ben's character's backstory fine without being told directly on screen.

Usually, I'd agree, but, in this case, I understood his story perfectly without having it laid out for me. But, it seemed to me that his story in particular was lacking. I didn't care for the movie, and I didn't need to "see" what had happened to him, I just felt as though the entire movie was given its guidelines and then drifted between and around them as much as possible before it had exhausted itself.

That makes no sense, but, it's the best description.