Jinx Sister 2008

I would like a copy of this film as promise by director/writer

My food take-away shop which the sisters meet to talk was use in this film and in return promise to recieve a copy of the dvd, hope you are reading this and can you forward a copy to my email va.f@clear.net.nz

By Taumeasina

Nice!..

 4

By Carol

Gripping acting performances

 4

There are some solid performances from the actors in Jinx Sister. There is very real tension and drama, especially in the scenes involving the two sisters. The production values exceed the budget and it doesn't suffer from trying to be too 'kiwi' like many NZ films have in the past. Because it's an emotional drama it will resonate in other countries and languages, having said that there are extra layers that New Zealanders will connect with in the film's South Auckland setting.
At times the pacing slows to a crawl, and overall it could be shorter. There are also ocassions where the soundtrack dominates - although this could be down to the cinema showing the film. In terms of the accent thing, the attempt is ok, but it is a very big challenge to portray a hybrid accent, especially California/Kiwi. It was a bit confusing that Sarah had picked up American terms (e.g. Mom) people tend to use the words they know, even if there voices change (friends in London sound slightly English to me - they don't say 'chups' anymore they say 'chips' but not 'crisps' as the English do) My companion in the cinema also questioned why the LA establishing scene was needed.

By Michael

got it right actually

 4

Saw this film last night, and just read Parker's comment below. Obviously they got it a bit confused about her accent. She wasn't trying to be American, like the story clearly explains - she is a Kiwi that had lived away for a long time. I heard Sara Wiseman, who plays the lead being interviewed and she said she wasn't trying to be American, only her accent had changed and was a mix of both now. The pace is slow but only in comparison to blockbusters. I have seen slower in other art films. It's a strong story and wonderful acting all round, especially the two sisters.

By Lisa Morrison

one for the girls

I can't get this film out of my mind. It is staying with me. It does have flaws but the overall effect has been very moving to me. Reading comments below, I find it hilarious someone thought she was meant to be American accent wise, what film were they watching?? Everyone entitled to their opinion though. Sara Wiseman shined. incredible presence. Another highlight was the scene between the two men when Phil, the father broke down. beautiful performance. Good on this tiny budget film!

By Rachel J

DIdn't expect to, but was captivated by it.

 4

A real girl film, as in by the ladies for the ladies, but unusually the males come off really well (not being blamed for everything!). The pacing is slow, but I thought that helped with the tension and really placed you with the cast, getting to know them rather than being subjected to flashcard characters.

By Next Wednesday

Jinx Sister Rocks NZ Movie Scene

 4

I recently saw Jinx Sister and because I knew it was a movie made on a shoestring I did not have high expectations however, it is a movie with a quiet confidence that draws you in and captures you. The storyline kept you wanting to know what was going to happen next. Overall the movie is edgy and heartwarming all at the same time.

By Marie McKenna

One for women

There is so much to celebrate about this film, including the diverse audience in our theatre. I'm still thinking abt it all, but off the top of my head, it was especially nice to have a memorable sex scene in an NZ film and the birth scene was the best I've ever seen, I actually believed it was happening, remembered my own children being born, something to do with that last push; & I loved the Polynesian women, the neighbour and the one with the child, who added just the right kind of spikiness for me. Many congratulations. We need lots more films about the subtleties of women's lives.

By Marian Evans

Too slow...

 2

Why is this movie so slow? Far too long... interesting aspects harmed by a terrible US accent, meandering pace and some OTT drama.

By JP Parker

Highly Recommended

 5

A subtle and intelligent film about returning to New Zealand and facing one's demons. Sara Wiseman's portrayal of Laura is fantastic, as is Rachel Nash in the supporting role as her older sister Mairie. Jinz Sister finds a rare balance of being delicate and strong at the same time. It is highly recommended.

By JA Smith

See it now!

 4

This film captures perfectly so many things: the tensions embedded in relationships between sisters; the angst associated with returning to a small country after being away so long; and the enduring pain associated with losing a child. Powerful stuff; congrats to director and cast!

By Jen

they filmed this at my old house

 3

i haven't seen this yet but i know what happens cause some of the scenes were filmed at our old house in papatoetoe. sarah was so cool to meet and jenni was so fun telling me about her kids and that and jarod was so funny! got pics to prove and everything. it was a all day experience but it was well worth letting them use our pad to make such a well done movie.

By jennifer wise

Ok

 2

Mad props to those kiwi filmmakers who got this to a mainstream audience. Not my cup of tea though sorry

By Tane

Great story that stayed with me

 4

I went to the screening at the Film Festival. I would definitely recommend this kiwi film to anyone. The two male leads are fantastic, so good to see kiwi males that have got it together! Sara Wiseman and Rachel Nash are infinitely watchable also. Slower in certain scenes than most fast cut films, but works for the feel of it.

By Kelly M

A refreshingly believable local drama

 5

Hats off to those brave people who manage to finance and make their films outside the constraints of commercial production interests. These are the filmmakers who are free to challenge the formulaic approach to film production we see all too often and give us films that have their own identity. I saw this film at the festival and was moved by its very real portrayal of a woman’s attempt to rebuild her life and relationships that had been eroded by years of guilt.
The setting, pace and haunting soundtrack along with strong performances from the cast gel to create a great little film.
Recommended.

By Ivan

I apologise for my negativity

 1

I don't wish to be dismissive, but I didn't enjoy this film. I'm suprised at the reviews here - it's overly long (in total, and each shot is long), and just not very interesting.

By Jan

thoroughly engaging,moving story beautifully told.

 5

This story unfolds in a way that makes it very easy to watch,yet it is never predictable,right to the last scene. The characters are portrayed with depth and humanity. The revelations that we follow them through are exposed skillfully and truthfully.I left the theatre feeling like my heart had been on a journey.

By Craig Hall

watchable, engaging, moving

 4

the mood and the strong acting performances of the cast make this film compelling and very watchable. Sara Wiseman shows us the considerable range of her ablility and carries a moody and sometimes sad homecoming movie that always retains our attention. Well worth a look.

By Rob

Great NZ film

 5

Saw this at the film festival. A really great little NZ film. Strong performances and an endearing story. Well worth going to see.

By amanda

Heart and Soul

 5

This film had huge heart, really wonderful performances, and beautiful subtle imagery. If you have a family, you will be able to relate to this story. A fresh look at local New Zealand, where the boys are truly onto it. Go see for yourself. Well done!!!

By Joanne