Why so much hype?

Good films always raise compelling questions, whether the format is fiction or documentary fact.

The film may be flawed, but its message is not.

The movie's not perfect, but it sticks the landing of its message. It was engaging - thrilling at times - and I personally thought it was a great time.

This film is more mature than others but still evokes a great story. The cinematography is incredible. Each camera movement and frame was thought out carefully to the very last detail making every shot artistic. I recommend this movie for any film students! The actors in this film are not A list celebrities which I think is great because while their acting is superb, their popularity status does not detract from the film's story and delivery. As far as independent films go, this one is very well done and an excellent example of what film making is all about. This is clearly some of Geoffrey Simpson's best work as a cinematographer.

"...Chez Nous" looks at this compelling question through the life of one Aussie woman who's self esteem is constantly undermined by the men in her life. This film is a psychodramatic, realistic, and intelligent look at the clockworks of a nuclear family held together more by mutual need than love and respect. The camera studies the slow disintegration of the family unit and the rebirth of Beth (Harrow), the principle character. Well made, earnest, honest, and insightful. An interesting watch for more mature audiences.

I liked My Brilliant Career back in 1980, but after seeing this effort from the brilliant turned masterful Ms Armstrong I suspect that its traditional feminist message ("I won't give up my dreams for a man") made it more palatable for the times. Chez Nous doesn't let you off the hook so easily. What I found so compelling is its gentle but firm refusal to adopt a condescending attitude towards the characters or the audience. I rented this film with Jane Campion's Sweetie, which I found audaciously weird but riveting, in fact I now own Sweetie. Like Chez Nous, it deals with heroines and their family relationships, particularly involving sisters and to some degree, fathers. Both films are from the same part of the world. I was happy to find a used copy of Sweetie a few months after seeing it, but I watched Chez Nous twice before returning it, and that's the highest recommendation I can give.

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.