JoelChamp85

A captivating exploration of New Zealand cinema through the personal lens of Sam Neill. Blending his own childhood experiences with the nation's evolving identity, Neill crafts a fascinating reflection on how the country's film industry has embraced its unique voice. He examines themes of isolation, unease, and identity, highlighting the work of key filmmakers who shaped New Zealand's cinematic landscape. Thoughtful, insightful, and rich with history, it's an essential watch for those interested in the intersection of culture and storytelling, and how film shapes national identity. I really enjoyed this one.

This film is unable to be what it is trying to be, whatever that is. A bit artsy, mythical, out of the box, but does a weak job of it all. Trying to break typically story making unsuccessfully, and yet it uses the Hero's Journey formula, amateurishly. It honestly felt like an expensive student film who got a bunch of money and spent it on the first draft of the first script he/she ever wrote.

First half is almost unbearable with Peter's friends and family taking larger roles than previous films, they just don't cut it. The comedy misses it's mark and the emotional scenes have no impact. The only good supporting character in first half is Dr. Strange. But, the second half does redeem the film somewhat. This is probably one of the weakest in the franchise.