Pam's Movie Reviews

Sometimes I wish I was a film maker.
Sometimes I'm just happy to enjoy good films.
Here's three I've really enjoyed this past week:


Ce Qu'il Faut Pour Vivre
(The Necessities of Life)-

1952-Tivii is an 'Inuk' from Baffin Island, grandson of a great hunter and provider for his wife and two sweet girls. During the epidemic of TB in the 50's, Tivii is required to unexpectedly leave his family for a sanitorium in Montreal to recover. Facing language, cultural and health barriers, Tivii feels an approaching sense of hopelessness. Until he meets Kaki, an 11 year old boy from the north who speaks his language and understands the simplicity of his good life. I got a last minute chance to finally see this movie and wasn't disapointed. Natar Ungulaaq (Who you might recognize from 'The Fast Runner') does an incredible job being lost, lonely and far from home in uncertain circumstances. Not a totally warm, fuzzy movie but it will most likely move you to feel contented with your life. ***** out of 5

Henry Poole Is Here-

A heart-warming story of Henry Poole (obviously!), who moves into a house in the neighboorhood where he grew up while he deals with some issues in his life. When his chatty, friendly but religious mexican neighbour spots the face of Christ in a water stain on the stucco of his new house, she can't help but see it as a miracle and he can't help but wish it gone. While the poster and premise for the movie seems very light hearted and fun, I found the overall sense to be a little more on the serious, thought provoking side. With the combined elements of great actors (Luke Wilson's slow lazy drawl fits in perfectly to the hot summer setting of a quiet californian suburb), a good mix of dry comedy and not too over the top drama, great cinematography and unforseen poignant moments, this movie was a pleasant surprise.**** out of 5

Entre Les Murs (The Class)-

Teacher in a middle shcool in a tough neigbourhood of Paris, François (Monsieur Marin) has the arduous task of teaching grammer & literature to 13 year olds. Faced with a generation of ipod wearing, cell phone talking, disrespecting teenagers, his methods of frankness and challenging encouragment have, in the past, been able to grab their attention...at least a bit. This year, however, seems a bit tough when the students begin to challenge his methods. This movie was an incredible character study and an interesting aspect of modern france with it's vast cultural mix. And with my french obsession, fun to listen to/read along with as well! ***1/2 out of 5