The Most Fun You Can Have Dying

This movie is engaging. This has something to do with the acting, something to do with the direction and a lot to do with the handling of subject matter: A man who hasn't worked out what he wants to do with his life has suddenly been given a deadline. The performances are strong and its actually about something. Its a fantasy in a lot of ways, it plays out like the full spectrum of lifetime desires, misdemeanors and heartache. Through the sequence of this film, the lead character experiences both sides of betrayal, copious amounts of sex, wild spending, debauchery, a lot of pain and a lot of love. Its gorgeously shot too, across European winter and has a soundtrack to die for. This film seems to have polarized New Zealand audiences. In my world that means its a good film.

This was the biggest film disappointment for me in a long time. I kept waiting and waiting for the film to get better, and I wanted to walk out - after all, I was the only one in the Wellington cinema and would not have bothered anyone by leaving. The cinematography and editing was acceptable, and like another reviewer here has commented, the various (European) cities were beautiful to see. Matt Whelan's acting was good, but at times Roxane Mesquida's acting came across as stilted and amateurish. It did indeed come across as pretentious, unrealistic, disharmonious and boring. The director and script writers must have been in a black mood to produce such a miserable story. Surely the high votes for this movie must be from those involved, and they will subsequently down vote this or any other negative review. All I can say is if you do choose to see this movie and find that you don't like it, then walk out!

This is my first NZ movie I have ever seen. I didn't enjoy seeing it and I don't understand the high rate so far. I consider it's very unrealistic and the love story is extremely bored, particularly when the love story starts. I didn't probably get the suitable mood to watch this movie because I consider it more a fantasy or an adult tale than a fiction movie. This is the reason that I consider it pretentious and unrealistic (e.g. how we can understand the secret place in East of Europe? how we can understand the love story based on glances (without chatting)? how is possible no police in the hospital?, etcetera). However, the main character is well played by Matt Whelan, the beginning of the movie is compelling and some picture of the different cities are beautiful.

This is an excellent film, well written and superbly acted. Matt Whelan is a revelation as the terminally ill Michael who embarks on one final hurrah. The scenery filmed is stunning and the European winter sets the scene for what is often a sad and harrowing tale. Roxane Mesquida plays the part of the mysterious Sylvia and does a fine job of slowly revealing her issues and demons to the audience. Many themes run through this film, the major being the joys of friendship. A moving film and one of the best NZ films made for a long time. It is a shame this has not been given a wider audience as the cast and crew deserve much plaudits for what is an outstanding film. My only gripe would be the title of the film which suggests a light hearted comedy piece, when the reality is the exact opposite.

This is an absolutely brilliant film. It has been beautifully shot in both NZ and Europe. The story is engaging and I found it to be very touching. The characters are complex and extremely well played by all of the cast. Matt Whelan and Roxane Mesquida in particular are both excellent. It is unusual these days for a film to surprise me but the story is so well directed that it really did. This film is a great example of Kiwi talent and just goes to show that New Zealander's can punch way above their weight. I wouldn't be surprised to see the film pull in a few awards before long. This is a film that makes you think and feel. The only way you could be disappointed is if you are incapable of one (or both :-) ) Go see it!