Red Roses and Petrol

I recently saw this film at a special screening. I didn't know what to expect but was ultimately very happy that I attended the event. The story about a dysfunctional family rings true, as the relationship between siblings is portrayed in a very believable way. I really enjoyed the acting by the entire cast. I especially liked seeing Malcolm McDowell playing such a different type of character. It should also be noted that the soundtrack was very good, especially my introduction to "Flogging Molly" and it's always nice to hear new songs by Susanna Hoffs of "The Bangles". Even though the film had a few slow spots, overall, the film was very moving, yet not overly sentimental.

I love dysfunctional family dramas, but only when they're done well. Many are not, simply because I don't buy the fact that it's a real family and they never seem to have that natural family connection and it just never sells me. Maybe it's because I'm European myself, and can relate to this kinda family more, but I bought this hook, line and sinker. The acting was amazing, and the banter between siblings was so spot on, I was really impressed. It felt like the director really put care and love into this project. It's not a mind blowing piece of cinema, but it's definitely a heartfelt and actually pretty fun movie. It's definitely worth a watch, oh and it has a great soundtrack! Flogging Molly FTW!

I enjoyed the film. The casting was perfect, I especially enjoyed the performances of Heather Juergensen and Max Beesley. I was entertained by the story and moved by the characters. The director did a fine job translating a story for the stage to the screen. If you belong to a family you'll relate to this film.

I caught this film at a festival some time ago and was very impressed. Being a smaller budget movie I was surprised by how well done it was, both production and performance wise. visually the film has a dark appeal that really reflects the theme of a family coping with the loss of a loved one. Director Tamar Simon Hoffs accomplished the challenging task of turning a play into a film, and created a wonderful on screen dynamic while not compromising the integrity of the plays theme. Another aspect of the film that I enjoyed was it's ability to balance dark comedic elements while maintaining a strong message, something many movies fail to achieve. Although it may not have elaborate sets and an abundance of A list Hollywood actors, Red Roses and Petrol is a great film and shouldn't be missed.

Saw this yesterday at AFI and came away disappointed in this screen adaptation of Dublin playwright Joseph O'Connor's play. There is some good casting, particularly with Malcolm McDowell and Max Beasley - they look like they could be father and son. However, I never felt much chemistry between Malcolm McDowell (Enda) and Olivia Tracy (Moya), and she seemed to be too youthful to be his wife!

This ensemble piece frequently felt like seven characters acting in their own version of this play, with many soliloquies rather than engaging dialogue. The writers burdened their actors with trying to bring life to these 2-dimensional characters. Dialogue or scenes often didn't ring true - like when Enda does his impression of Elvis or when Moya can't explain to her daughter what more there is to marriage.

Scenes were long and empty, almost as if trying to stretch out the limited substance. Character development was shallow and fell short on insight. I don't feel I got the emotional payoff in the end for some of the more intense scenes - instead it felt manipulative. Technically, there were continuity and questionable editing issues, which weakened the movie.

Bottom line - it didn't have a consistent ring of authenticity about it!