The House of Sand

A beautifully photographed and moving saga of three generations of women, Waddington's "Sand" begins in 1910 and fast-forwards to 1919, 1942, and finally the Space Age, tracking Áurea's trials with her impetuous daughter Maria (Camilla Facundes), who longs for a life beyond the dunes. Over the decades, Áurea's experience will be shaped by death, tragedy, war, and romance with an astronomer, Luiz (Enrique Diaz), who seems to hold the promise of escape. Early on, she also receives help from Massu (Seu Jorge), one of the wary ex-slaves living nearby. Flawlessly acted, "Sand" is an ode to women's otherworldly strength. Note: the film really is a family affair- Montenegro and Torres are real life mother and daughter, and respectively, mother-in-law and wife of the director.

Briefly, I liked the story, the photography and the almost complete absence of musical emotional cues from the sound-track, leaving that to the story itself. One thing I'm puzzled about: I see Beethoven's Appassionata sonata listed in the musical credits but was unable to find it in the film.

This is not a fast-moving film. It is the introspective study of how a generation of women (Grandmother, Mother, and Daughter) survive in a stark, unforgiving climate and how each turns to a man/men in an effort to escape it. If you are in the mood for something different, I suggest this gorgeous Brazilian gem.

WOW! Film making never ceases to get better. Everyone must see this film and add it to their collection. I no longer like discussing the details of films, as I feel it takes the magic away from the initial viewing. I will discuss a film with someone after they have seen it. Great movie. I love those Brazilians. I big hug and kiss to everyone involved in the making of this film.

This foreign film was heartbreaking and heartwarming. It was very interesting to see how the characters develop throughtout the film, there is a short part where the audience is left wondering who is who in the story but then it is all quickly revealed. Very well written film. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

The House of Sand, starring Brazil's academy award nominee Fernanda Montenegro, is a story of love, sacrifice, and commitment. Filmed in Brazil's northern sandy coast, the mother and daugher Maria and Áurea learn to survive the harsh conditions and make a life for themselves after Áurea's husband brings them there and dies shortly thereafter. A story of courage you won't want to miss.

This is one of those films you run accross accidently and then wonder why you had never heard of it. The photography is fantastic and the story grabs you. Highly recommended.

Cinema classico!

Although slow-moving in places, this movie is well worth the time spent. The acting is solid, the scenery amazing, and the story, moving forward years at a time as it follows the life of the main character, reveals the complexities and ironies life holds.

This film has a unique landscape and story. There really isn't a film like it.