I went to see this having read a couple of books on the subject several years ago, including the one on which the film is based.
Wasn't sure what to expect as there's been a lot of hype & media publicity surrounding this film.
I must say I certainly wasn't disappointed.
This is an excellent film. I haven't seen director Sarkies' other film Scarfies but I was impressed with this. No doubt he's headed for bigger things if this film is any indication.
Take a bow Mr Sarkies, you've already got the NZ Film Awards sewn up.
This is the kind of film you don't see too often, shocking and extremely tense, but without relying on the graphic violence and bloodspatter far too prevalent in mainstream films these days. Add to that this is a true story and there's plenty of attention to detail.
A few other 'bigger' directors could take note from this that the audience aren't all idiots. They can figure out what's happening without squibs going off left, right and centre and spent cartridges ejecting from the chamber in slow motion.
As the cinema sat in silence, I swear I could hear my own heart pounding at times as my blood pressure went through the roof. A great movie going experience not felt too often.
I wasn't sure if If I was watching a reenactment or remastered old news footage as the specialist Police moved in on the town. It looked very authentic.
In spite of his dastardly deeds, one couldn't help but feel a tad of sympathy for the bad guy who is portrayed as a sad, lonely dysfunctional person who's mental health gradually deteriorates. More good work by the director and certainly different from the norm.
It wasn't perfect though, the pacing of the film seemed a bit out of kilter in a few places, while I thought some of the acting in the film was brilliant at times, but not quite so at others.
The up close gun fire as well probably fell a little bit short in the decibel department and could possibly use a touch up.
That aside, on a global scale it's a small budget film so any shortcomings are excused.
I give it an 8 because I'm a very tough marker, with a 10 being nearly impossible.
Given the subject matter, I don't think I could call this entertaining, but it sure is an experience & somewhat unforgettable, enough to make a grown man cry.
In short, see this film!
