Dean Spanley sees local boy Toa Fraser return to the director's chair after his successful debut project No. 2. This was warmly received by critics and audiences at its premiere at Toronto Film Festival 2008.
Set in Edwardian England, this is a fantastical dramatic comedy about the relationship between the cantankerous Fisk Snr (legendary Peter O’Toole) and son, Fisk Jnr (Northam). A passing interest in the "transmigration of souls" (that's reincarnation to you and I) develops into much more when Fisk Jnr meets new clergyman Dean Spanley (Sam Neill). An odd chappy, Spanley - upon sipping on his favourite, exotic wine - seems to recall a former life. These strange insights relate to the Fisk family's past, and arise unexpected emotions for father and son.
I apologise, we feel bad, but there's no trailer available. ~Ed.
It’s a really random choice of follow up film for No.2 director Toa Fraser, and it’s just about the least Kiwi-ish Kiwi film you’re likely to see, but Dean Spanley is a little gem regardless. You have to admire a film which revolves almost entirely around Sam Neill recounting tales of his past life in a shorter, hairier, more waggy tailed form but still ends up tugging at your heartstrings by the end.
Alan Sharp’s script is both laced with magic and expertly handled by Neill, Aussie veteran Bryan Brown, Jeremy Northam and the brilliantly irreverent Peter O’Toole. The latter’s confused and frequently apoplectic facial expressions add a number of laugh out loud moments too - while the 76-year-old Lawrence Of Arabia star does indeed look like he’s in ‘the anteroom of eternity’, his comedic chops are well intact.
Dean Spanley’s not for all tastes – things unfold at an unhurried, genteel pace and much of this is essentially a group of wrinkly blokes sitting about talking. But the storytelling draws you right in and Sam Neill handles his role with such a deft touch that what could have been a prohibitively weird premise is soon engulfed by humour and tenderness.
So, 2009’s umpteenth canine-focussed movie turns out to be both the oddest and the best so far. The fact that it’s a Kiwi co-production just makes that even sweeter.
By Ashley Bird, Flicks.co.nz
If you ever loved a dog, do not miss this movie. Quirky movie, bur you will never look at a dog the same way again. The actors and the ramifications about life are great. Slow start and absurd, but absorbing.
A charming and touching film with excellent lines and superb acting. One of those films that are able to warm up your heart and make you laugh, a story about finding oneself and the truth of love. Peter O'Toole is excellent and all the others don't let you down.
I can't believe this film is highly rated. It's a novel that should never have been turned into a film! The plot requires a huge leap of faith, relies on a series of untenable coincidences, and ultimately turns into The Incredible Journey. Which is fine. If you're 10.
great acting but boring till dead
Amazing writing and acting. Can't imagine a better father-son-dog tale.
Ingenious and absorbing, nothing is over-played in this English-New Zealand co- production, which was shot in both countries. From Don McGlashan's perfect score to Leon Narbey's gorgeous cinematography in muted shades that give way to golden tones of memory, this is a gently amusing, thoroughly entertaining and moving film. The theme of bereavement and reincarnation gives way to rebirth and the recreation of a thwarted relationship with great grace and style. Recommended for dog lovers and anyone with a heart.
Wilfully whimsical and determinedly eccentric, this faintly bonkers period tale won’t be for everyone. But if you fall for Dean Spanley, you’ll fall hard.
This is a delightful, oddly moving film, immaculately acted, carefully skirting whimsy, and nicely located in its period.
A dull and thoroughly stilly British drama based on the idea of canine reincarnation.
It's a rather ludicrous setup for Toa Fraser’s Edwardian comedy; if it’s a premise you can swallow, you’ll probably enjoy the whole ripping yarn. The banter is quietly pithy, and the daft story eventually builds to a surprisingly moving conclusion – thanks largely to yet another masterful turn from O’Toole.
We've been told the NZ release date for this flick is Thursday, 26th Feb 2009.
Release date: February 26th 2009.
We haven't received times for this movie in this location yet. However these are updated as cinemas announce them, so check back soon. Hopefully the lovely cinemas in your location will choose to play it shortly. ~Ed.
