House of Sand and Fog [DVD] by Ben Kingsley

What a powerful film; a film that confirms modern cinema has something authentic to offer. It is a story, as the director says, about the clash of two hopes: both right in their way, but set upon a tragic trajectory. The cast give faultless performances, with Ben Kingsley and Jennifer Connelly, in the lead roles, leading the way. The direction is intuitive: we learn, in the unusually good extras supplied on this DVD, that the director began by story-boarding the action, but then threw the drawings away and took a less premeditated approach. Story-boarding has become something of a cinema curse, because directors too often simply reproduce images they have seen in other films or contrive a pictorial effect that works against the action. It requires a truly creative cameraman to bring sequences to life in the more fluid approach, and this film is blessed with a great cameraman. The story tells of a young woman dispossessed of her house by the county, because of unpaid taxes, and her efforts to get the house back from a man - an Iranian immigrant - who bought it in good faith, as an investment, in order to rebuild his family's fortunes. It shows how, by small missteps, lives can be transformed. Connelly's character feels overwhelmed by life's disappointments and Kingsley's, an ex-colonel in the Shah's army, is utterly convinced of his power to see off life's disappointments by his wits and will. The man's wife, still struggling to adjust to life in America, and the girl's helper, a deputy sheriff who has a weakness for making up his own rules, provide nuanced variations on the film's themes. The story is so compelling because it both sympathises with and faults every character, without favouritism, and, although the audience can feel the growing menace of the situation, the filmmakers keep us in suspense as to who will pay, and how. 9.5/10

Fantastic story telling and Ben Kingsley is just outstanding, really outstanding, in this story of getting on in America. The land of opportunity through sheer hard work, and the land where people expect to get what they want by virtue of an overblown sense of entitlement. When these clash the result is unexpected, yet fully expected. I found myself feeling quite angry as the film develops towards an inevitable awful dénouement.Can be viewed as a tragedy and also a terrible commentary on American attitudes. But can be enjoyed (?) without getting too caught up in between the lines.Not recommended for "a cosy night in with a DVD on the sofa" !! But recommended nevertheless.

An amazing movie with truly wonderful performances from the cast. The flipside of those wonderful performances is the emotional devastation you will feel when the movie is over. It will stay with you for far longer than the credit roll. Haunting.

A good film just for the presence of Jennefer Connelley, dark and disturbing but a good film with an unusual way and choice of material, not everyone's cup of tea, but if you enjoy a good story and can handle the dark side of real life, then this 1 is for you. If you enjoy fast cars and sex, leave it well alone, all in all a good film i don't regret buying

Incredibly moving film, exploring aspects of mental illness, the plight of refugees having to establish themselves in a new country and start from scratch and the need we all have for love in our lives. Wonderfully acted by all the cast.

I watched this on tv last night. I went to bed thinking it was more than a cut above the average filler for the small hours.I woke up this morning and it was still on my mind. I realise this is a great film and I must own it.

Wonderful film. Holds your attention right from the start. Great performances from everyone particularly Ben Kingsley and Jennifer Connolly. The end of this film is unexpected and will reduce to to tears - unless you've a heart of stone! Well worth seeing. 5 stars.

This film is very thought provoking and well worth viewing!