Secrets And Lies DVD > Reviews

Advantages: see opinions
Disadvantages: none

What is it about Mike Leigh's films that are so special? Is it the wryly observed ideas in his scripts, or perhaps lack of them? He is reknowned for making the actors ad lib and feel their way through the parts rather than giving them structured formats to work to. "Secrets & Lies" is an excellent example of what a Mike Leigh film is usually about. Family tensions. Recriminations. Barely concealed antagonisms. Simmering threats. Mix all that in ... Read review

Advantages: Brilliant acting !
Disadvantages: Not suited to those who like action every second!

...lightning Drama! There are secrets that affect all members of this family and the painful truth revealed! There are brilliant performances from all concerned , especially Brenda Blethlyn as neurotic and lonely Cynthia. With 5 nominations for Oscars and 3 BAFTA Awards, this film is a rare treat, and treated with compassion. I feel its one of the the Directors best films to date, may he continue! A film to be enjoyed again and again. Thanks ... Read review

Advantages:
Disadvantages:

...people in fact can keep secrets for each other that seems obvious for any one involved to figure out for themselves. It's easy for us to say it, because we're not in it. Therefore I believe, that Mike Leigh's handling of the story is absolutely fabolous. The film gives you a great story, superb acting, interesting characters, emotional wrenching scenes, an intelligent blend of humor and seriousness and a wonderful plausible ending. I recommend you ... Read review

Advantages: Brilliant cast
Disadvantages: Need to concentrate to gain anything.

...This film is an emotional rollercoaster and not for those who like escapism. I've seen it 7 times over the last 4 years; there's something new everytime. Again, Mike Leigh has come up trumps with a star cast including Brenda Blethen. This film is very much for the realist in you. The stark contrast between rich and poor; between the hygiene freak and the slummer. What this Film Four Classic prooves to the viewer is very specific... just like ... Read review

Advantages: Bitter sweet humour, superb acting
Disadvantages: Too much like a TV drama

Mike Leigh is one of Britains best directors - along with Ken Loach he is the cinematic voice of the working class and the disillusioned mr and mrs suburbia. Though unlike Loach who always portrays the situations with painful realism(Raining Stones), Leigh creates darkly comic adult fables, generally with a liberal dose of warmth hidden somewhere in the despair(such as his brilliant Life is Sweet). I found this to be in a similar vein to that film, ... Read review