Film Reviews by AJ

Truthful, moving, funny, understated, heart-breaking. This was Peter Bradshaw's (Guardian film critic) film of the decade, and I can see why. The plot? How a child turns into an adult, how the adults around him change, how life moves forwards through a series of events large and small. A film to immerse yourself in - and watch again.

Congratulations to the viewers who lasted longer than that. But it doesn't look like there was much worth waiting for.

This is a troubling, disturbing, gruelling view. The antithesis of a feel-good movie. It is beautifully filmed with masterly cinematography and mesmerising scenes. Don't watch it if you like fast-paced entertainment or need a relaxing and enjoyable evening. It asks profound questions and lingers in the mind for a long time after the startling final scene.

Like the hotel itself, and like the fancy cakes baked by Agatha in the film, this film is more style than substance. It didn't add anything to my understanding or appreciation of the world, or leave me with anything to take away. I think it was designed as entertainment, and at times it was mildly entertaining. The acting was good.