The Last Days of Chez Nous

Full of wonderfully acted, beautifully observed moments in the life of an unconventional family, this was called, by one critic, 'an Australian 'Hannah and her Sisters'. And to an extent that's not a bad description.

But this film is messier, less complete in it's vision and less bold in it's style. None-the less it's still entertaining, moving, and very worth seeing.

Bruno Ganz's half French, half German accent is a bit distracting (he's terrific otherwise), and, for me, the ending felt rushed, as if things had to get to a conclusion.

It's a film I'd actually wished had gone on longer, or had been willing to leave things less resolved. Once you start with the messiness of life, you lose something with a last minute switch to the neatness of movies.

Last Days -- Lisa Harrow and Kerry Fox star in this story of family dynamics in Australia. Vicki returns home to live with Beth, but Beth already has a french speaking man living with her. There's lots of laughter and fun, but there are deeper issues way down deep. Cracks in the seams of Beth and JP's relationship, but before it can be worked out, she goes on a road trip with her dad. but which mice will play while the cat's away ? and can she get along with a grouchy, complaining old man who keeps picking fights? It's an ozzy film, so everyone in here is quite quirky. things get sad and serious when relationships start to break down. some sadness, but it's fun for the most part. showing on netflix. pretty good stuff.

This film is a favorite gem. It is Bergman like in its convincing depiction of family relationships and emotions. It's a very round presentation of life - it shows the comedy and pettyness. You really feel the air of grief in the family. The cinematography is crystal clear - as if the family is being studied under glass. It mostly takes place at home but there's a liberating road trip.

If you like character study dramas what this one.

Half the time middle aged people acting like teenagers Not one likeable character

This is a moody and frank story of an Australian couple and how relationships change when the husband falls in love with his wife's sister. Lisa Harrow is the pent-up wife of J.P.(Bruno Ganz)and Kerry Fox is Vicki the younger sister and temptress. I saw this on IFC and was really reeled in with the straight forward atmosphere and personal subject matter. Cinematography is super and the Australian accents cool and pleasing. This is a powerful drama; and well deserved kudos for director Gillian Armstrong.