Chile 2012

Details IMDB

Seen 22 February 2013

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.6/10

Rotten Tomatoes 7.7/10

My ratings 7.5/10

An ad executive comes up with a campaign to defeat Augusto Pinochet in Chile's 1988 referendum.

My impressions:

The war to win the hearts and minds of a country requires all resources available to the contenders. In this instance, using the media to persuade the masses gives hope to the oppressed. The opposition must also take advantage every time a repressive regime opens a window of opportunity. In this case, the regime allowed the opposition to have a given slot of precious time to air their views in the national media.

The story revolves around the young idealistic man who feels he can make a difference. It is not a smooth journey especially when the danger hits home. Then we have to decide whether to continue or give in to the pressures.

An engaging effort and a lesson to others who want to make a change. But be forewarned, it is not a bed of roses.

A Royal Affair

Denmark 2012

Details IMDB

Seen 4 February 2013

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.5/10

Rotten Tomatoes 7.2/10

My ratings 7.5/10

A young queen, who is married to an insane king, falls secretly in love with her physician - and together they start a revolution that changes a nation forever.

My impressions:

Women have been pawns in the corridors of power for a long time and the situation continues till today. Imagine all those years ago when a young girl is married off to a stranger. No one asks for her consent. It is just a given that she will follow and obey.

Others do not realise that beneath the innocent demeanor is an intelligent person with a mind of her own. Those around her are not keen with changes brought into the system as they have their own agenda. The love affair with a kindred spirit puts the heroine in jeopardy and we see the consequences.

Sad and uplifting in some parts.

Transfer

Germany 2010

Details imdb

Seen 23 January 2013

Ratings from other sources

IMDB  6.6/10

My ratings 7.0/10

Being old and realising that your time is nearing its end makes those who can afford it find alternatives. In this story we are given a choice to prolong our life but in a different body. A body borrowed but it is not smooth sailing all the way.

My favourite quotes from the film:

My paradise is here...together with you

My impressions:

An alternative

Being young and healthy again

Capturing that vigor

That energy

Long gone

Not old and sickly

Is that the life for everyone

There is a price to pay of course

Nothing comes free

A high price indeed

For both the buyer and the goods

Even if the transaction seems

Above board

It is a business after all

That is the bottom line