House of Sand and Fog movie review

Directed by Vadim Perelman
Featured cast

  • Jennifer Connelly (Kathy)

  • Ben Kingley (Behrani)
Ratings / Reviews

aelst's review

This is a story about a house that whose ownership ends up passing between people. There are 5 main characters - I can't even remember their names, but I will order them from my best to worst in terms of my approval of the character's actions. None of the characters are perfect.

  • kid

  • soldier husband

  • girl

  • wife

  • field training officer

This movie will make you think about how you judge people, as the flawed characters represent traits that are common to people you probably know or will know in your life.

Depressing movie but at the very least rent it on dvd! 4 out of 5 stars.

ratbag's review

"House of Sand and Fog" is one of those rare good movies of the year. It is not as much story-driven as it is mainly about the main characters, Kathy and Behrani, and how easily the flaws in each of those characters and those around them can adversely affect their lives.

The story begins with Kathy, who we see is unable to accept reality. She's a recovering alcoholic, smokeaholic, and her home is in shambles, reflective of her state of mind. Through red-tape and some confusion, she loses her home through an auction to an Iranian family.

Ben Kingsley plays Behrani, the head of that Iranian family. At first we admire the man for his diligence as the provider of his family, as he works two jobs in his attempt to preserve the lifestyle his family used to enjoy. However, his ego and stubbornness would soon lead to the demise of those around him. The casting of Ben Kingsley is crucial to this role, as his presence commands respect and authority.

Unlike Behrani, Lester (played by Ron Eldard) is a deputy sheriff that uses his badge to effect what he wants. While Behrani is willing to sacrifice everything for his family, Lester is willing to leave his family on a whim.

There can be no happy ending in a tale like this. I was mentally and emotionally prepared so there was no need for tissues! This movie is an excellent exploration of morality, leads us to question our own actions if we were placed in a similar situation. I would certainly recommend it.