Moonlight Sonata (2009) User Reviews

Psychological thriller

[taksila · 9/10 · 28 February 2010]

You're at the edge of your seat watching a thriller. Once the film is over you realize it's also a philosophical statement that you want to discuss with friends and neighbours. Moonlight Sonata is a film to watch, once seen also to talk about Not an account of what happened,but what the director said. In spite of the fact that the actors one by one go deep into our soul, they all come across as characters that we might come across in every day life. Looking very much forward to Kayalar's next film. He seems to have the extraordinary knack of making the unusual seem very much a part of the behaviour of the man on the street,your ordinary individual. I thought the camera work was especially brilliantly done. Just the right amount of focus and background- not overly emphasizing the individual but placing the actor in context

A well done film..

[shhoon08 · 9/10 · 15 February 2012]

Very well done film, I truly enjoyed it. The writing, directing, cinematography, music and acting are excellent. The plot unravels rather slowly, sustained by a steady crescendo of suspense and becomes more complex, intriguing and unpredictable with each minute. The actors, particularly M.J Karmy, Warren David and Irena A. Hoffman are superb. Irena drew my attention in particular. She portrays Vicky, a flawed yet lovable character with such delicate and natural subtlety and powerful depth that I found myself wondering why we don't get to see her more often on the big screen. She definitely has the makings of a star, with her gorgeous sophisticated looks and remarkable talent. If you enjoy an intelligent, intricate and mysterious story and a high quality execution, then Moonlight Sonata is for you.

A smart thriller

[alubowski · 9/10 · 16 August 2009]

Fortunately, this movie is not too long, otherwise I would rather pee than leave for 2-3 minutes. It is so packed with unexpected turns that one would regret an interruption. Excellent dialog, good music, solid, though not necessarily extraordinary acting (with one or two exceptions) make it one of the best 2-3 movies I have seen this season. Don't have a clue as to what these people have done before ( I mean a director, actors, etc), but sure know what the heck they were doing. Another proof, if one needed one, that stepping outside of the well known cast of Hollywood characters can yield surprising results. It doesn't seen that the movie cost the fortune (no car chase, no rockets flying over our heads, no Paris by night), and still it appeals to both my sense of taste and mystery.

Overexposed

[moonlwind · 4/10 · 1 September 2009]

I saw this movie on the festival Love is Foully in Varna. I'd like to say that it was quite overexposed, overdone, worn-out ...you get the idea, don't you? At the final stages the crowd was even laughing because the scenario began twisting and turning faster than a whirligig. And on a whirligig everybody laughs, you know!

Anyway, at least it was obvious enough that the actors were making good efforts.

It's just that the ideas(not to say clichés) in this movie are enough for making two or three more movies like that or even a soap opera.

P.S. Even so, the beginning was good and intriguing.

a beautiful and surreal thrill ride

[diana-flasher · 10/10 · 8 April 2010]

I recently had the opportunity to see "Moonlight Sonata" and have to say that this film did everything to satisfy my artistic expectations of an indie film while at the same time taking me on a psychological thrill ride. But as a thriller, this film is so much more interesting, more satisfying and more authentic than its Hollywood equivalent. In this story, there are no clear goodies and baddies. Instead, the characters' moral struggles seem to mirror the ambiguities and ironies of our own moral codes. Individual scenes were filmed in a way that was so beautiful and surreal that they seemed to be painted right out of the characters' own imagination. There were moments during the film when the filmmaker seemed to be paying homage to his own favorite filmmakers, like Hitchcock and Lynch, suggesting a genealogy of filmmakers. Like all of my favorite films, I found myself thinking about the film long after it ended. Now I am trying to find out where I can see it again.

Absolutely Captivating

[crytsal_m · 10/10 · 14 December 2009]

My husband and I had the pleasure of attending the Premiere of Moonlight Sonata at the Livermore Film Festival in CA. I have to congratulate the actors and the filmmakers of their success of this very entertaining movie. This was by far one of the most suspenseful and captivating movies I have seen in a very long time. The story line was well thought out and not at all what I expected. It definitely kept us on the edge of our seat the entire movie. In my opinion the cast was well selected for their roles in the movie and the acting was high caliber. I would recommend this movie to all my friends. I would definitively rank this movie one of the best I've seen in the theatres this year.

Excellent film-making

[Kalinajazuk · 10/10 · 23 November 2009]

Moonlight Sonata is a brilliantly intriguing film that will captivate and grip you through its entirety. The writing, directing, casting, cinematography, sound, and acting are superb. It is extremely evident that a lot of thought, detail, and hard work were put into the making of this film, yet it appears effortless and seamless. I found myself connecting with and feeling for the characters and their predicaments, particularly Vicky, who is so much more than what she seems. The film has visually breathtaking moments that boast its overall distinctive expression throughout. While the movie sends you on a dark and twisty ride, it leaves you feeling a glimmer of hope and satisfaction. Moonlight Sonata is a high quality film that certainly deserves the recognition it has received (and then some). A suspenseful, mysterious, sexy, psychological, thriller that is a must see!

A great movie full of surprises

[bim-24 · 10/10 · 12 January 2010]

Wow, what a captivating thriller. The plot protected it's secrets until the end, unraveling slowly like a tangled ball of yarn. I truly enjoyed the role of Alice played by M.J. Karmi. The story kept me on my toes all through and I have to say that the beginning of the movie impressed the notion that something large was lurking, yet undisclosed. The movie was very well put together overall. Coming from Sweden, I appreciate a film that can brave the depths of human relationships under a blanket of tension. All the actors held their grounds and cultivated a settled storm, instilling curiosity and promising a consequential culmination of events.

GO SEE IT!

Genius of Kayalar shines through this Superb Indie Movie!

[humanityfirstnow · 10/10 · 18 August 2009]

I have had the privilege of knowing Dr.Celik Kayalar as a brilliant scientist and an artist, for the last decade. When I finally saw his feature-film "Moonlight Sonata" last week, I was totally blown away! Knew it would be good, but this good?! Yes, I agree with the other commentators here, it is truly a Cinematic Masterpiece! No wonder his film-colleagues, on and off the set, have taken to calling him the "Maestro". Got a chance to talk to some of his cast and crew members recently, they indeed adore him and can't wait to work with him again.

One IMDb commentator compares him to Hitchcock; perhaps true for his mastery of telling a suspenseful story but lets face it, Hitchcock has never been this deep, thoughtful and relevant as an artist as Kayalar is here ( Maybe having a Nobel-caliber mind and a PhD in biochemistry accounts for the difference ). This is not just an extremely enjoyable and superbly crafted "Thriller"; it is a very important collection of universal human issues and themes, thoughtfully presented in a most satisfying cinematic fashion ( After all, film is supposed to be a visual medium, isn't it? ). Did you know that the exquisite original paintings in the movie were all done by Kayalar himself, in the last ten years or so? No wonder "Moonlight Sonata" plays like a Rembrandt painting in motion, all throughout ( Here, my hats off also to Sam Chase, the extremely skillful and talented cinematographer of this movie ).

Enough said, please go see "Moonlight Sonata" where ever you can find it, will you? And, Dear Maestro, please don't make us wait this long for your next one, will you? Hope Big Studios are listening too, in Hollywood or elsewhere!

An intense thriller with surprises around each corner.

[memdus · 10/10 · 28 November 2009]

I saw this film a few months ago at a film festival, and it's still in my mind. I especially loved the beginning of this film. It instantly captured my attention and drew me into it. As I jumped out of my seat a few times, I was convinced by the well acting. The filming was excellent. The disturbing but interesting plot was well directed and something to talk about. My family and I were conversing about the movie long after it ended. It was catchy and unexpected. I recommend this film for those who love to have their heart pumping. Many Congratulations, to Dr. Celik Kayalar and the Cast. Awesome Job! i would love to see another film by this Director.

A thriller worth seeing!

[moniquebricca · 10/10 · 27 May 2009]

We saw Moonlight Sonata at the Livermore Film Festival. My partner and I were very impressed with the quality of the film, actors and script. Certain aspects that are brought up in the movie show you how parts of society can be so hypocritical especially if it suits ones purpose. It was one of those movies that keep you thinking long after you've left the theater. It's a really good movie for a film group who likes to get together after the movie to discuss what they've seen. We're especially delighted that it was filmed locally. The fact that a lot of the actors were local was really a plus. It kept us at the edge of our seats! Well Done!! MB

Just add Pop Corn!!

[trojanfanslife00 · 10/10 · 18 June 2009]

First, I want to say it takes a lot to please me when watching a movie, I'm usually one step ahead of the plot. Not the case with Moonlight Sonata! From start to finish it took me on a ride. I viewed it at a Festival after the trailer caught my eye. It is thrilling, non-stop action, with feeling, suspense, compassion, and it leaves you thinking about it for days... the characters fully developed as well. I won't spoil anything, but the directing is amazing as well as the cinematography. Having the passion of a Sonata it is complimented by beautiful cinematic framing. I can't wait to see this film again, for it is so multifaceted. A gem to fulfill all your senses. Just add popcorn!

Highly inventive thriller!

[gregland1 · 10/10 · 25 June 2009]

I loved this film. This is a movie that brilliantly invites you to come along for the ride, and delivers delicious thrills all along the way... My assumptions were challenged throughout, as character motives and actions continued to unfold in surprising ways - it refreshingly reminded me of Hitchcock in its grace and storytelling. Even until the very end, I couldn't guess what might happen, which I find to be extremely rare having seen so many movies. Warren David Keith is outstanding, and the entire acting ensemble flawlessly delivers, especially for an independently produced feature. Great direction - the pacing and style felt perfect. There is only one moment I would have wanted to see differently (this is not a spoiler - it was when something came out when a door was opened to the outside), because I think the empty space would have left some more space for the imagination. But this is so minor, it barely deserves mention in comparison to this films achievement. All in all, this is a must-see - especially for Hitchcock and suspense lovers!

Awesome!!!

[MrSyrett · 10/10 · 22 June 2009]

I loved this film. I saw it at a film festival and was blown away. The performances were amazing as well as the cinematography and direction. The characters were all very well written and very much alive in the performances. The story is original and captivating with twists around every corner.I was kept guessing the whole time. This film really recaptures what a cinematic experience is supposed to be like. And I especially loved the fact that it wasn't dumbed down. Unlike some films nowadays, with Moonlight Sonata I didn't see the ending coming. If you like twisted thrillers with lots of surprises then see Moonlight Sonata!!!

Great Film

[omuratoglu · 10/10 · 24 May 2009]

I saw this movie at the Livermore film festival with my wife and we were both pleasantly surprised. I can not wait for it to hit the movie theaters so I can recommend it to all my friends. It was already a topic at many social gatherings where I talked about this movie. I'm glad I took the time to see it. The story line was full of surprises and suspense. The acting and directing was superb. It's definitely worth seeing. The actors for the caharcers were well fitting and speaks volumes about the careful planning in cast selection. The theatre at the Livermore film festival was packed and the movie received a huge applaud from the audience at the end. Without revealing any of the plot, I strongly recommend this movie.

Refined humor in thriller

[sygul · 10/10 · 18 November 2009]

I have seen this movie in a film festival and I strongly believe that it deserves to be seen by the public. The unexpected twists in the plot that challenge you are enough to make this thriller a classic. What turns it into a lovely gem is the refined sense of humor of the director/screenwriter/editor (same person) that crops up occasionally. Discovering the subtle pieces of irony and black humor along the movie is a pleasure. The low profile music enhances the movie. This film shows that genius is enough to produce a low budget film that beats the zillion dollar Hollywood films embarrassingly. Hollywood may learn a few things from this unknown director.

The best way of disclosing the uncomfortable truth....

[aissvancouver · 10/10 · 8 November 2009]

I consider myself lucky for seeing Moonlight Sonata at the Antalya Film Festival with wonderful people.

Although we are familiar with the story of disclosing the uncomfortable truth, Celik Kayalar is transforming this ordinary theme to an extraordinary feature-film accompanied by beautiful music with his prodigious skills.

The way the story was told,it's music, it's high quality make this movie worth to watch it.

I am looking forward to seeing his future projects soon...

Congratulations....

Great movie beautifully shot

[barbara-292 · 9/10 · 6 July 2009]

I saw this movie at the California Independent Film Festival. The opening sequence is just gorgeous. The entire movie was beautifully shot.The camera-work in this movie was like a lead character lending itself to the rhythm and suspense of the movie. The lead in graphics and titles were great. The suspense of the story was well told and nicely crafted.

Warrne Keith and MJ Karmi did a nice job along with P.David Miller. The doctor's part was not played to it's best potential. But all other actors did a great job. The laugh that came from the audience during Aimee McCrary's line was well timed and a welcome interlude.

This is a beautiful movie with numerous challenging locations that add to the storyline. Great Job !

A feast of intelligence

[tanbay · 9/10 · 16 November 2009]

Bravo, This movie is a proof of: You do not need a big budget to make a big movie. Such a well thought story, so many fine details with a lot of room for audience intelligence. A very good mixture of screenplay, music and camera. It will keep you thinking long after the movie and might add another view of looking to people you think you know. We have seen the movie in a film festival a month ago and we still find our self with my wife discussing about it. This movie came like a feast of intelligence where it gave me room and freedom to take it further, which I missed a lot lately.

Must see...

Simply superb

[gonul-1 · 10/10 · 28 June 2009]

This movie was simply superb. The story was complex and engaging, the casting was spot on, the cinematography exhilarating, direction subtle and precise. The plot was like a scientific experiment and kept you at the edge of your seat the entire time. The images were very vivid. Even though I saw it more than two months ago at the Livermore Festival, I can still see many of the scenes in my head. The dialog was also very real and resonated with me. I liked the nuances in the story and that right and wrong, good and evil are not so black-and-white. The movie ends on a somewhat hopeful note despite all the awful events that unfold. That message has staying power.

what a thriller!

[horsekrazie34 · 10/10 · 23 June 2009]

My husband and I attended this movie @ a recent festival. We loved it. This movie had us talking long after the credits. It was nice to see a 'Thriller " that I didn't figure out in the first 20 min. I don't want to say to much about it, because you just need to go see it. It has a wonderful cast of characters, that will keep you guessing on there intentions, which is fun to try and figure out. I thought the acting and directing was great.It was also nice to see some of the local areas we know, since it was filmed in the city. This was truly a fun night out with the hubby. We talked about it the rest of the night. I love a movie that can do that.Hope to see it again soon.

It's a wild ride...

[Scoot_McGee · 9/10 · 16 July 2009]

I saw Moonlight Sonata at a recent festival and was quite impressed. For an independent film, the production value was fantastic. The cinematography was outstanding and appeared to be done by someone with some great experience. I looked up the director's name and was surprised to see he is not listed as director of any other films listed on IMDb. I enjoyed the story and I fell in love with the gal that played the escort. I understand she is from Romania. I think I want to move there now if all the women are like her. She is sexy and quite talented. Very good casting in this film. The lead actor has been in a couple Cohen brother's films according to this site. I wasn't sure what I was in for when I walked in and grabbed my seat but let me tell you, it is a wild ride.

Sexy, Suspenseful and Twisted

[donnaya · 9/10 · 22 June 2009]

Moonlight Sonata is a movie that left me digging my nails into my husband's leg (during the most suspenseful scenes) and displayed the unexpected turns that ensures 'edge of the seat' viewing. The actor's portrayal of their respective characters were intriguing and quite enjoyable in the evolving story telling. As the story was appreciatively unpredictable (vs. the typical suspense) in the right areas, the characters also blurred from the exacting 'good' or 'bad' persona, but were more complicated and very human in their behaviors. I was witness of how reality and fantasy can sometimes collide. After the movie, I was truly wondering about how the movie came into being and how the writer brought the story to life and about the whole creative process. I recommend this thriller set in the beautiful California landscape, filled with some beautiful and not so beautiful people, and definitely intriguing plot line that will grab you and take you on its course to the very end.

Captivating thriller with a message!

[mffer-1 · 10/10 · 11 September 2009]

I had been told that Moonlight Sonata was quite the sleeper and a must-see movie, but it was still a fantastic surprise actually watching it. An intelligent, entertaining movie with such an intricate but captivating plot, many unexpected twists and turns, and even a bit of black humor is truly a rare find. Once the movie begins it is hard not to be glued to the screen, no matter how short your attention span. There are subtle social messages but these are presented more as questions rather than answers, in a surprisingly entertaining way. Instead of pointing fingers to the characters that embody the ills of human nature, the movie simply asks why, leaving the answers to the viewer's intelligence. The plot, the casting, acting, directing, cinematography and music are all first class. Several of the actors, including M.J. Karmi and Warren David Keith could be easily nominated for academy awards if only the movie were seen by a wider audience. The cinematography by Sam Chase is great, and Dr. Celik Kayalar certainly makes his mark with his superb directing. This movie puts big-budget Hollywood productions to shame, and I certainly plan to see it again. This can be a classic!

Well made Indie Feature that went above and beyond

[Films-179 · 10/10 · 1 June 2009]

I saw this movie at a Film Festival in Livermore, Ca. and must say I was really impressed. Everything from the Story to Directing from Acting to Camera Placement to Editing. It was all on point and creates an overall great pace for this film. From the beginning, the Director establishes his main characters and makes them interesting for us to follow on this tragic tale (It is well worth following). The story is easy to follow and keeps you guessing over and over again (Very Rare In Cinema). I cannot wait to see this film again and recommend it to family, friends, colleagues or anyone who likes good old fashioned films. Whether you like Art House Films or Action, This Film has it all. A++++++++++