Broken Hallelujah (2014) Reviews

• Beautifully shot film that pulls the heart strings

  jenniecruse-824-9912482014-10-22

  I was completely captivated by this beautiful New Zealand film. It's got a dreamy quality and takes you on a journey of three peoples lives which become interestingly entwined. It touches on all areas of your emotions and you feel connected to the characters. I was particularly drawn to the lead actor Greg Smith - he has that warm smouldering star quality that I feel from James Stewart & Jeff Bridges. He gives a grounding and heart to the whole film - I must check out what else he has been in. The cinematography is breath taking. And there is some resonating dialogue at the end from the other main star Vanessa Riddell (who is brilliant - I think most women will relate to her) - she says something like "the cracks and imperfections in life are there to let the light through" it's so true... I left the cinema really moved by this film - soothed, enlightened and inspired.

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• Broken Halleluah

  automatic-changers2014-11-02

  I saw this movie 2 weeks ago. It was a great view - saw the poster on the side of the road so decided to give it a go since I watch most local content. I thought the scope of the story was a bold undertaking but it was pulled off by some great acting and depth of character. I definitely recommend it for anybody. The soundtrack was cool as well. I think it is a notable addition for kiwi's to know that Alastair Riddell directed the movie (giving his longtime tenure in the NZ arts), but the movies true star is Vanessa Riddell in her characters performance throughout a script that tries to tie together 3 plots. If you see it showing, definitely take the chance to pop in and see it.

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• Relevant New Zealand Made Story.

  laura-coletaylor2014-10-22

  A thoughtful take on contemporary life in The North Island, Auckland, New Zealand. Beautiful imagery of the West Coast combined with a handsome soundtrack and sensitive performances make this a must see for art house and movie buffs alike. Issues that are all too common these days are tackled well by the actors, the generational dynamic, pressure on young families and peer resonate. Having good intentions doesn't cut it if there's an economic crash and communication breakdown is one example here. Folk - do make bad choices sometimes, we are human after all but if we can stop and enjoy the little things (corny as it sounds) there is still hope.. Greg Smith is a stand out as is the child who plays the lead actresses daughter in the early scenes.

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• A film to make you reflect on relationships

  thewisbeys2014-10-21

  I went to see Broken Hallelujah not sure what the story would be. I was pleasantly entertained. This is not a happy love story but it is a story that asks the viewer to reflect upon the ramifications that can come from decisions and actions within a relationship. It is as the blurb states not a love story but it is a story about love. We follow the three families as they work through their emotions. I enjoyed the story line,the acting and the music. It was refreshing to see New Zealand portrayed in a normal fashion plus the beauty of the west coast beaches alongside suburbia. It is a pity it is playing in so few cinemas around Auckland.

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• A must see New Zealand Feature Film

  phillpalmer82014-10-22

  A must see New Zealand Feature Film - Amazing performance by all cast - Incredibly written and presented A beautiful and realistic representation of our human qualities, Most of all I could relate with the lives and loves of the characters of this brilliant, wonderfully told story . Please go along and support the hard work by the cast and crew of this masterpiece.I highly recommend seeing Broken Hallelujah at a cinema near you. I cant Fault this film on any level all aspect of the film are very well done so I am given it a 10 out of 10 Phill Palmer

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