Customer Reviews

Behind the Red Door

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Considering the typical role of Kiefer Sutherland, this film is quite out of the ordinary. The performances by two incredible actors bring alive the story of man who is fighting his own fears, while trying to help his sister fight hers as well. They help each other to accept certain tragedies in their lives, his illness, her denial of their mother's murder, and rebuild a relationship with each other that is incredibly real. This film is poignant, brilliant and touching to say the least, and has an incredible message concerning HIV/AIDS, but also a touch of humor. Kiefer's gestures, facial expressions and his portrayal of this man with the rough exterior who has such a kind heart show that he's beyond talent. The scene on the beach where Roy and Natalie have their conversation about being alone is fantastically done, and the scene near the end when he tells her he loves her is so simple, yet so touching. It faces the finality of death, and shows the importance of family and forgiveness, in a masterful production that I watch over and over again. We need to see more of this type of film from Mr. Sutherland.

First, this is a superb script. It searches the deepest emotional corners of life with crystalline clarity. There is depth of emotion without sentiment, spiritual exploration without cliche and human truth devoid of lecturing. In addition, this writer and director were truly fortunate in their cast. The characters are extraordinarly realized and executed. It takes trained, talented and caring actors to so succesfully inhabit their roles. But their way was certainly smoothed by the heartbreaking intensity and utter integrity of the story.

The locations are almost painfully beautiful and the editing and direction produce an utterly seamless experience.

Finally, this not a story about death; it's about living life -- and that is it's greatest acheivement.

This movie absolutely took me by surprise. I wasn't expecting much as I have seen some of Kiefer Sutherland's earlier movies and wasn't impressed at all by the story content or his acting. With that said.... I have to say I was absolutely stunned at the power of his portrayal of Roy Hadad. I found myself forgetting that it was Kiefer playing a role, but instead found myself empathizing with Roy and taking great joy in the relationship he was beginning to re-form with his sister Natalie on an adult level. I could truly feel Roy's vulnerabilities and fears through Kiefer's interpretation of him. I also am not ashamed to admit that I rented this movie multiple times before I bought it. The only thing that mars the beauty of this story is the use of a very strong curse word used multiple times by different actors. I wish it wasn't there and it really serves no purpose being there. It truly detracts from the pure beauty of the film. The serenity of the ocean coupled with Kiefer's very subtle facial expressions and movements when he makes his decision on the deck and when he tells Natalie of this decision (I won't ruin it for those who have not seen it) overwhelmed me. I truly felt the power of his conviction and the sense of purpose Roy must have felt at that time, and this was once again all due to Kiefer's portrayal of Roy. Kiefer also portrays Roy's lifestyle in a way that is understated so that this is not the focus of the film but keeps the focus on the relationships and Roy finding for himself peace with God and others. This movie is pure genius on the part of Kiefer Sutherland and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a movie with depth. I look forward to more truly amazing performances by Kiefer Sutherland in the future. Kiefer, if you're out there let me say that no actor has ever moved me the way you did in this movie. Thank you for the experience.

Á must see movie for people with substanance. Emotional healing is a long and painful process. Roy painting the front door of his house a bright red colour is just one of the visual healing processes. The nature scenery is so beautiful I wish I could see, feel and hear the surroundings of the house and the house itself. Both actors delivered brilliant performances, and I don't understand why the movie and the actors didn't receive an Oscar or Golden Globe!

I can count, on one hand, the number of movies that have left me with nothing more to say than WOW!!!! Keifer Sutherland's performance was not only impressive but I was totally stunned at his ability. I couldn't take my eyes off the screen! A definate recommend to all; and a must for my VERY SELECT collection of DVD's. I think Keifer Sutherland will finally come into his own if he can continue with quality roles like this.

As a huge fan of Kiefer Sutherland this movie knocked me off my feet. The characters were so wonderfully portrayed by the actors that you could have knocked me over with a feather. I am used to Kiefer being a bad guy, being a good guy, but this one ranks as his best movie to date.

Definitely hangs with 24.

Colleen L. Stanford

I rented this film before I bought it. I must say that this is Kiefer's absolutate "best" performance. I rented it for 3 straight weeks and then bought it. I watch it over and over again. The story was so sensitively told and the cast was absolutely perfect!!!! Kiefer of course was the solid anchor and Kyra brought in the rear w/her solid portrayal. I loved the actress who played Michelle as well, she was a delight. I also particularly took notice of the actress who played the young Natalie. I am expecting more from this young lady and look forward to seeing her in future projects.

But, back to the story. My heart was touched and I found that "I" wanted to go help Roy myself. That's just how profound Kiefer's portrayal is!!!! It seemed like I was watching my own loved on going through this situation. Though I have enjoyed everything I've seen Kiefer do, this is, again, his absolute "best" work. And now with his success on 24, there's no stopping him now!!!!

I highly recommend this film. You will see a most sensitive story told in the absolute finest form, superb peformances and you will experience Kiefer "at his best!!!"

You go Kiefer!!!! May God continue to bless you!!!!

This is what movies should be, great script, great acting, great directing...movies aren't made like this anymore which is too bad.

Behind the Red Door is a lovely and poignant movie. Keifer
Sutherland is excellent as the brother. Watch his walk! So
in character! This man never disappoints.
His dry wit and perfect timing are a delight.

This movie was based on a true story and it is apparent that
real care and talented people were behind the making of the movie.

The sister in the movie is excellent. The mood and tone of
the story is so good, you hate it when the ending comes.

The scenery adds even more to the nuances of the film as well
as the excellently researched medical background.

This is the "gem of a movie we are all looking for."

We never can be sure what happened in the past, but we get to focus on the present, with a brother dying of AIDS and his sister taking care of him. That he has a bad attitude and hasn't seen her in years adds to the drama and to the sense of time together slipping away. Great performances by Sedgwick and Sutherland.