It's a bit stunning to watch a film made in New Zealand, by New Zealanders, and not want to cringe. This is a fantastic piece of work. Kudos to the production team - when I think "road movie" made with a measly NZ budget I shudder to think of the result, especially when shot in a lightning fast 28 days. Yet this film looks like it cost three or four times as much to make. The visuals are stunning, and its cinematography award was well deserved. The story takes a nice big swipe and New Zealanders and their obsession with the USA. It may look on the surface to be your average american road film, and therefore a bit of a typical, stolen idea... but in truth this story rings sound as a uniquely New Zealand piece of work. It immediately promises to get quite dark... and then does... slowly sliding its way into that grim genre that New Zealand has created for itself that Sam Neill dubbed the "Cinema of Unease". This is a great New Zealand film, but better still, it's just a great film full stop. Great work to Gillian and Vanessa and all their team.
12 Reviews
Completely Ridiculous
auslite2 September 2007
I'm getting tired of NZ films like this. They have poor stories, the scripted dialogue is ridiculous and they are badly acted. Six years on and this type of NZ film is still being made. How did the Australians make the giant leap into quality film and somehow the Kiwis are still fumbling around like a High School Play Group? This film reeks of the liberal ideas and attitudes that are coming to a close in NZ. The story is desperate to attack traditional NZ culture and values, yet instead of actually telling the truth -which would do it better- they present common ignorant liberal assumptions.
There is so much kitschy rubbish throughout it: scenes constructed from what the filmmaker must imagine rural NZ is like instead of what it actually is. It gives the impression that NZ culture is stuck on top of the people like a cheap plastic toy on the dashboard of a car. If you live in NZ or are familiar with it's people you'll laugh at some of the sanitised characterisations.
Why was it even necessary to drift off into sci-fi? Is the truth really that hard to face? Or is it because the filmmaker really had nothing to say outside of proclaiming they, personally, imagine themselves to be "badass."
There is so much kitschy rubbish throughout it: scenes constructed from what the filmmaker must imagine rural NZ is like instead of what it actually is. It gives the impression that NZ culture is stuck on top of the people like a cheap plastic toy on the dashboard of a car. If you live in NZ or are familiar with it's people you'll laugh at some of the sanitised characterisations.
Why was it even necessary to drift off into sci-fi? Is the truth really that hard to face? Or is it because the filmmaker really had nothing to say outside of proclaiming they, personally, imagine themselves to be "badass."
Kitchy characters and tight plot but otherwise variable
saraffitch29 October 2003
Gillian Ashurst's films are generally characterised by fetishistic use of kitchy character images from sci-fi, the wild west and 1950s pin-ups. It's anchoring, but can come across as objectifying and seems to contribute to a lack of plot.
Snakeskin does not entirely diverge from the kitchy character theme but definitely has a tight plot with good momentum. The main characters are believably drawn, although they're not particularly likeable.
The acting in Snakeskin varies. Oliver Driver is brilliant in a challenging role as a skinhead. Melanie Lynskey tends to overact somewhat, and Dean O'Gorman at his best, although this is not saying much. The "comic relief" characters, the local ice-cream van drug vendors, are both annoying and extraneous to the plot.
There are some very well executed sequences and ideas, for example the grief caused to a family by a fatal car crash, the CGI section when one of the characters is tripping on LSD and a tender moment shared between a skinhead and women's underwear. These snipets in themselves give an idea as to the diverse tone of this film.
Snakeskin is an interesting development for Ashurst as a filmmaker, and worth a watch, although more in the sense of 'fun' than 'challenging'.
Snakeskin does not entirely diverge from the kitchy character theme but definitely has a tight plot with good momentum. The main characters are believably drawn, although they're not particularly likeable.
The acting in Snakeskin varies. Oliver Driver is brilliant in a challenging role as a skinhead. Melanie Lynskey tends to overact somewhat, and Dean O'Gorman at his best, although this is not saying much. The "comic relief" characters, the local ice-cream van drug vendors, are both annoying and extraneous to the plot.
There are some very well executed sequences and ideas, for example the grief caused to a family by a fatal car crash, the CGI section when one of the characters is tripping on LSD and a tender moment shared between a skinhead and women's underwear. These snipets in themselves give an idea as to the diverse tone of this film.
Snakeskin is an interesting development for Ashurst as a filmmaker, and worth a watch, although more in the sense of 'fun' than 'challenging'.
The whole thing is like a slow drive to nowhere with the kids fighting non stop in the back of the car.
cameragod24 April 2003
Warning: Spoilers
I so wanted to like this movie, my sister was Melanie Lynskey's body double, but sorry sis you were good, the movie sucked. I didn't like or hate any of the characters, finding them bland, one-dimensional and sadly unengaging. The portrayal of the American drifter was right passed cartoon and into offensively stereotypical. Snakeskin does nothing new or even well, the comedy that should help lift the story is limp and unsatisfying. The whole thing is like a slow drive to nowhere with the kids fighting non stop in the back of the car. Are we there yet? When will it end? Spoilers- other than actually paying to see the movie.
The writer Gillian Ashurst may think getting F***ed in a toilet by a stranger is very exciting and everyone's secret fantasy but. yawn, is this crap really the best she could come up with? I was glad when one of the main characters put the gun in his mouth and died. One less source of weak inane drivel to listen to and I felt relieved because the movie must nearly be over. wrong it just kept going on and on. and even then the end was not worth the wait.
The writer Gillian Ashurst may think getting F***ed in a toilet by a stranger is very exciting and everyone's secret fantasy but. yawn, is this crap really the best she could come up with? I was glad when one of the main characters put the gun in his mouth and died. One less source of weak inane drivel to listen to and I felt relieved because the movie must nearly be over. wrong it just kept going on and on. and even then the end was not worth the wait.
Stylish, yet unfulfilling
psyche-151 September 2001
New Zealand movies have a knack for being slightly 'quirky' and this film is no exception. The characters are somewhat enigmatic, the scenes are at times surreal, and the plot is suitably 'dark'. Unfortunately, "Snakeskin" is unable to live up to its premise, and the viewing experience is somewhat unfulfilling. However, this is not to say that the film is without its good points: Firstly, the cinematography is absolutely breathtaking and showcases the beauty of Southern New Zealand; secondly, the camera work is extremely effective (especially in the first half) thus adding an element of intrigue; and thirdly, the acting is slick and well-polished (in particular Melanie Lynskey and Oliver Driver).
Despite its good intentions, "Snakeskin" does not run as smoothly as it ought too. The first half of the film runs like a typical road movie, and this is reinforced by the use of humour and brisk action (car chases etc). The second half of the film takes a dramatic change however, and veers into thriller territory. The scenes become darker, more complex, and more serious. I found this shift in genres quite distracting, and it made the film increasingly difficult to comprehend. Obviously, the snake motif plays a central part in the film, but this is undermined by the 'twilight zone' treatment it receives in the latter stages. Ultimately, I think the film would have been more effective if it stuck to a simpler story-making formula.
Despite its good intentions, "Snakeskin" does not run as smoothly as it ought too. The first half of the film runs like a typical road movie, and this is reinforced by the use of humour and brisk action (car chases etc). The second half of the film takes a dramatic change however, and veers into thriller territory. The scenes become darker, more complex, and more serious. I found this shift in genres quite distracting, and it made the film increasingly difficult to comprehend. Obviously, the snake motif plays a central part in the film, but this is undermined by the 'twilight zone' treatment it receives in the latter stages. Ultimately, I think the film would have been more effective if it stuck to a simpler story-making formula.
Lynskey is outstanding!!!
serebo15 November 2001
Superb acting and cinematography compliment a fresh writing style that skillfully guides us through this modern-day "Alice in Wonderland" set in New Zealand. Lynskey especially takes us on an ultra-realistic joy/horror ride, as the subtle changes in her character hook us almost subconsciously, and before we know it, drag us forever down the rabbit hole, screaming for more!
Twisty surprises delight and enthrall...
kaybar21 June 2003
I loved this film so much I've seen it several times, and with each viewing am rewarded with another layer of story telling, symbolism, character development and references to Kiwiana - & NZ v USA culture.
On first viewing it's a twisty road trip with lashings of humour and a sci fi flavour, but subsequent viewings reveal a much darker story and complicated characters - once you recognise clues delivered in short sequences, or understand that throwaway lines are crucial to the story.
Cinematically it's an eye popping feast of vast landscapes and gorgeous lush scenery, but it's the dark twisty story which satisfies the most. Melanie Lynskey as Alice blew me away in her first sexy lead role rather than as the usual "suburban friend" she gets cast as; even Dean O'Gormon surprised as I'd only ever seen him acting in a soap before.
The soundtrack deserves special mention - especially the mood inducing soundscapes as the road trip progresses.
Overall this is a classic NZ film which will affect an entire generation of New Zealanders as Goodbye Pork Pie did in the 70s. Well worth a look.
On first viewing it's a twisty road trip with lashings of humour and a sci fi flavour, but subsequent viewings reveal a much darker story and complicated characters - once you recognise clues delivered in short sequences, or understand that throwaway lines are crucial to the story.
Cinematically it's an eye popping feast of vast landscapes and gorgeous lush scenery, but it's the dark twisty story which satisfies the most. Melanie Lynskey as Alice blew me away in her first sexy lead role rather than as the usual "suburban friend" she gets cast as; even Dean O'Gormon surprised as I'd only ever seen him acting in a soap before.
The soundtrack deserves special mention - especially the mood inducing soundscapes as the road trip progresses.
Overall this is a classic NZ film which will affect an entire generation of New Zealanders as Goodbye Pork Pie did in the 70s. Well worth a look.
Excitement just down the highway.
michaelRokeefe23 January 2011
Warning: Spoilers
This New Zealand product slowly grabs you. Alice(Melanie Lynskey...Rose on Two and a Half Men)is a young women who craves excitement. She admires most all things American; you know...threat of danger, drugs, sex and in her mind anything resembling a cheap thrill. Her bedroom walls are covered with photos of James Dean and Elvis. She also has a fetish for snakeskin boots. Her ideal weekend is going with platonic friend Craig(Dean O'Gorman), who wants to be called Johnny because it is sexier, hitting the highway and picking up strangers. With each stranger there is the chance of adventure. Johnny being in love with Alice would go to the ends of the earth for her. What Alice wants...Alice usually gets. When these two adventurers pick up an American hitchhiker Seth(Boyd Kestner), the road trip becomes a thrill ride. Seth appears to be a rough cowboy packing a gun and wearing snakeskin boots; and he is trying to hide the fact he is running from drug dealers, who he robbed...he has their product and their money. This being known, small town Alice and Johnny become characters in the adventure of their lives. Lynskey has what it takes to carry the movie. She is vibrant and adaptable. Others in the cast: Oliver Driver, Jode Rimmer, Jacob Tomuri and Paul Glover.
NZ Road Film come of age.
snotter-11 August 2001
Kiwis have this really odd approach to our films. We automatically assume that if a film has come from the States, and if it's showing in Hoyts, then it's better than anything ever made in New Zealand, let alone the smelly ol' Mainland.
As Snakeskin aptly shows, this is damn wrong, and it's fitting that it uses the Kiwi appropriation (obsession) with the American Dream as its central theme. In fact, the characters know more about Elvis and Marrilyn ("The patron saints of America guiding us on our journey") than about the small plastic Tiki they have in their car.
It's a very clever, very well directed, *excellent* film. With a kicking soundtrack. This is very important.
As Snakeskin aptly shows, this is damn wrong, and it's fitting that it uses the Kiwi appropriation (obsession) with the American Dream as its central theme. In fact, the characters know more about Elvis and Marrilyn ("The patron saints of America guiding us on our journey") than about the small plastic Tiki they have in their car.
It's a very clever, very well directed, *excellent* film. With a kicking soundtrack. This is very important.
Decidedly Kiwi Road Movie
jacob thomas10 October 2001
I went to Snakeskin not expecting much, perhaps something along the lines of "Stickmen" a NZ version of a successful overseas production, with a focus on Kiwiana and gimmicky NZ references. Too a large degree I was not disappointed. Oliver Driver plays yet another weirdo (although this time a skin head speed freak) which he does well, however, his appearances are becoming a little too familiar. While the acting and actors are excusable the writing is not, the first half of the film is nothing particularly new but works, but, by the second half the writing is completely incoherent. At one point towards the end it seems as if too many characters have been introduced and writer/director Ashurst just gets rid of them, they walk off, get shot etc. etc.... More noticeable than their demise is the increasingly strange (dare I say quirky) mishmash of ideas thrown in to try to hold the script together as it winds down towards the end which is neither a surprise nor original. (In fact for all you B-grade film viewers, very "Tales from the crypt" type thing). The whole film is very New Zealand on the surface and should be praised for being true to "NZ", those of you who liked "Stickmen" will like this film, but for me it does not compare with "Goodbye pork pie". Go and see it if only for the landscape.
Beautiful mystical opening song
icequeen30022 February 2005
As the film opens there is a song playing, the lyrics are something along the lines of "there's a dust cloud out there, and its bigger than Texas.." I have searched high and low for what this song is and who sings it on the internet but to no avail. If anyone has the slightest idea about it I would really appreciate it if you let me know. It plays just before Melanie Lynsky starts narrating and listing her heroes, various movie characters including Thelma and Louise. I think the lyrics in the song represent her desire for the adventure she has always lived for which is about to finally happen to her, though she doesn't yet know it. What is before her is elusive and hidden, behind a giant dust cloud. Lol even if you just liked the song as well I'd love to know i'm not alone and the song actually does exist!
The truth always gets you in the end
haydendeepsy9 August 2019
I was not surprised when i saw the rating because i always viewed Snakeskin as a film that you have to watch multiple times in order to understand.
The first time i watched it, i really liked how the story built up the characters in the first half of the movie, while the second half left me with a lot of question marks. Although, when i watched it for the third time, i really grasped the symbolism and profound thoughts presented in the third act.
Snakeskin starts off as a fun action film, but then it turns into a thriller with very suspenseful scenes in claustrophobical environments. I also liked how the director chose to have all the minor characters shown in previous scenes, reappear later on to show that everyone is heading in the same direction. The music is really well chosen, the landscapes shown in both day and night scenes are really beautiful, and the actors, especially Oliver Driver, give the film an even higher level. I definitely recommend watching it, but as i previously said, you need to watch it multiple times in order to understand it.
Snakeskin starts off as a fun action film, but then it turns into a thriller with very suspenseful scenes in claustrophobical environments. I also liked how the director chose to have all the minor characters shown in previous scenes, reappear later on to show that everyone is heading in the same direction. The music is really well chosen, the landscapes shown in both day and night scenes are really beautiful, and the actors, especially Oliver Driver, give the film an even higher level. I definitely recommend watching it, but as i previously said, you need to watch it multiple times in order to understand it.
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