Sophie's Rules (2023) User Reviews

Sophie's Rules

[kglekas · 8/10 · 20 February 2023]

Sophie's rules is a touching movie. It is nice to see a movie that shows love and kindness in the world for people, especially when they are lost from tragedy, addiction or illness. I found it very heartwarming that they helped each other, looked out for each other and ultimately found peace within themselves.

Sophie's character is very powerful in the way the other characters trusted and respected her and Sophie showed the same back to them .

The story reflects a loving crises centre with out the character realizing that by just following the rules it's becomes their safe loving home . Definitely a movie that will touch you.

Healing Together

[murraysuid · 7/10 · 7 March 2023]

Movies frequently tell the stories of lone heroes who overcome troubles on their own.

"Sophie's Rules" give us something different....and far more realistic. This ensemble movie dramatizes the truth that for most of us the key to moving beyond suffering is becoming part of a caring community. In this intense and hopeful film, the mutually helping group consists of half-a-dozen down-and-outers. These include an alcoholic magician, a young woman who was pimped out by her boyfriend, a brain-damaged football player, and a soldier's mother who refuses to accept that he was killed in battle.

Most of the action takes place is a comfortable home owned by Sophie Hagan, whose empathy and love work miracles. But Sophie herself is not above the fray. She has her own demons, and we learn from her journey that the gift of compassion begets compassion. Sophie is healed by healing others.

Although it deals with suffering, the movie is not gloomy. Tears are balanced by laughter as the characters find pleasure and strength in sharing meals, dancing, playing games, teasing each other, and exploring difficult questions. The actors-led by Maritza Brikisak (who also co-directed)-perform in a naturalistic way. That style, which is well-suited to the material, intensifies the movie's emotionally satisfying climax.

A hidden gem!

[stevenarviv · 8/10 · 23 March 2023]

Sophie's Rules is one of those hidden gems that I don't think the vast majority of people will fully appreciate.

I had to watch it twice to fully appreciate it.

Here why.

During my first watch I really really liked it but if asked then... I couldn't tell you exactly why.

The story was solid and well written. Perhaps not as polished as a big budget Hollywood production...but it wasn't supposed to be. If it was it would have been rendered a late night "Lifetime Movie" type production that you watch kill time at 3am on an idle Tuesday.

It was during my second time that I realized what made this movie special.

It was beautifully (and painfully) real.

The acting and writing that I first though was somewhat amateurish was actually the exact opposite.

The childlike and vulnerable Amber character was exactly how a young girl that I know (who was in the exact same situation) was like. In love with a boyfriend who has no issue pimping her out. They almost always revert to a childlike state (that may have been the last time that they felt "clean," unviolated and somewhat safe and normal.

The scene when she is lying in bed imaging her wedding was awesome. It showed that despite her situation she just was a normal girl with normal girl dreams. The look on her face when she was on the road to bettering herself and falling in love was heartwarming... I actually felt it.

The other dynamic that really stood out (and that I recognize as being very true to life) was the Maude and Andrew relationship. I saw a lot of this amongst street people and so-called "ne'er-do-wells" when I was growing up. You have a guy like Andrew (who was really a horrible magician) performing and his friends are constantly motivating him.

They truly believed that he is that good. It wasn't a platitude. You can see something similar at any high school play. No matter how bad it is... to the parents and friends it's an Academy Award winning performance. Full stop.

You could honestly feel how much these people loved each other.

I saw a very similar dynamic when I visited a friend who lives in a shelter. Everybody had their small groups that were actually their families. They exist in the same world that all of us do but they really only "live" in their small dynamic. When they are together the rest of the world and society does not exist.

The street gang was actually more realistic than a lot of people realize. In real life a lot of small gangs like this are made up of clean cut pretty boy types who are actually cowards trying to act tough. They prey on vulnerable people only and would be laughed at by any real players. If this were a Hollywood production they would be big, scary mean "urban" types who would have pulled their guns out and lit everybody up.

The real standouts here are the directors. Maritza Brikisak Christina Tsialtas.

I honestly don't think that the actors had the experience to pull off the roles like they did. This had to be a result of the directors.

My only criticism would be that there were too many characters who were wither underdeveloped, not utilized, or completely unnecessary.

The one character that begged for a larger role and more development was Blue. I really wish that they would have gone deeper into what his state was and what effect the concussion had on him and his level of impairment.

Captivating!

[bridgettscarlett · 15 March 2023]

This is a story of how human hardships can bring everyone together! Directors, Christina Tsialtas and Maritza Brikisak did an excellent job illustrating each character's pain and vulnerability. The writing was on point. The motley crew of characters makes for great storytelling. You get a inside look into each character's mind. The cast was well assembled. The storyline kept your interest throughout the entire movie. The menagerie of personalities made for an interesting and unpredictable movie. You have to watch until the end to understand how everyone comes together for the better good. This is a must see!

A painfully amateurish attempt at tackling trauma

[libobo12 · 3/10 · 19 February 2023]

Sophie Haggen, a middle aged single women along with her 18 year old son, open their house up to people dealing with problems of abuse or addiction etc. The plot (if well done) could be compelling enough for a 80 minute film, unfortunately the plan crashes as soon as the flight leaves. Let's start with the characters, most are hallow and straight up don't make sense. There is a young teenage girl who is supposed to be staying there because she had drug addictions and was being pimped out. This girl looked like she was the star cheerleader in high school and had never touched a drug in her life. The actress did fine with the role but was horribly miscast. One funny thing to point out was its supposed to be a drug and alcohol free house yet there was a bar cart filled with alcohol in the background of many different scenes. They tried to introduce too many characters but I watched the whole movie and couldn't tell you the name of any of them. The main actress Maritza Brikisak also directed edited and wrote the script and it shows. She made herself out to be some sort of heavenly god in the movie that is perfect and everyone looks up to. The directing and cinematography was sloppy and cheesy. It sounded like they used apple air pods to record the audio but it didn't matter because they had the same music blasting over every scene so loud I felt like they just wanted to drown out the bad dialogue. I know this was a done on a very low budget but it felt like she over extended herself in many different ways. The movie overall took itself so seriously and ended up being less emotionally impactful than a hallmark movie. I gave it a 3/10 because it is kind of funny in that so bad its mildly entertaining type of way. Also 4/5 of the reviews made their accounts just days ago to review this movie, don't fake reviews yall we all know.

Film of the times

[JeremiahK99999 · 9/10 · 21 February 2023]

Escape your reality when you need to face it head on . Its a long road to recovery. It is a long road to recovery. Its a disease and people need to treat it that way which ties to mental health. This film made one see that even tho you seem good one day you can you be a huge mess the day. The ache and need is real and youre haunted by the need to stop but the devil of addiction rides you hard and wont let you be. People try to escape reality but you cannot escape it. You think you can. You cant. 'Dont judge me egg man' , hit hard. Judgement is real. Film is good i think if you have the means for bigger production these stories are real. Little girly wants to fit in one you look good next day you look like the demons are riding you. I just know what i like. This hurts a bit. And i like it.

Touching and powerful

[thebao-09904 · 10/10 · 15 February 2023]

The Movie delicately portrays true stories that evoke reflection and introspection. Director Christina Tsialtas (and the team) masterfully weaves together these real life accounts to create a thought provoking film that reminds us that these characters and incidents could easily be our own. With a focus on positivity and hope, the film encourages us to consider whether we are "lucky" or "strong" enough to find salvation in both life's struggles and triumphs.

We all have the potential to influence and inspire others through our personal transformation. By embracing change, we can unlock our true potential and become the best versions of ourselves, leading to a ripple effect of positivity and change in the world.

Sophie's rules

[tonyahoule · 10/10 · 26 February 2023]

This is a very heartfelt film. In fact the film is sprinkled with such lovely heartfelt moments,and sad onesI have to say it kept me engaged the whole time, wondering what happens next. It was nice to see that there are still people in this world who care for others in.a time of need. It's also brings to light to addiction you need help and also want the help to get better. It's more of a disease than addiction. Definitely a must seen film to watch. To the directors Christina Tsialtas and Maritsa Brikisak on an excellent job on this film, especially being on a low budget film. I was also glad to see that Christina Tsialtas and Maritsa Brikisak did a great job directing the characters .

Feel Good Film

[Veronika1212 · 9/10 · 8 February 2023]

Impressed that directors Maritza Brikisak & Christina Tsialtas were able to make a indie film on their budget, kudos! Story is pivotal around Ms. Sophie-Maritza Brikisak , who brought together people in need. The need filled care and hope in her home that helped many lives with a short insight of their stories. Her son Bobby & her protector Blue, her support system . Unusual drop in Alice, snuck in by Amber & her unwilling accomplice Maud. Huevo & magic man although pained contribute in their way. Sophie offering not only a roof over their heads, therapy and what we all need love & care. Lovely film if too short. It teased us with storylines I would like to know more about. Even the bad guys in their unhinged car made me dislike them. Good work on all fronts . Good job by all of you , the dog & cute kid. Incredulous that a feature length film was done well on a tight budget. Kudos again!

Highly Recommend Sophie's Rules

[sammiew-00105 · 10/10 · 20 February 2023]

Great film, would strongly recommend. This film pulled at my heart strings, opened my mind and kept me fully engaged, eager to see what was going to happen next! The story line was creative and the characters each had a relatable quality that gave me a feeling of empathy and compassion. Each character was unique and interesting and it was clear these were experienced actors as they each nailed their individual roles. The writers and directors did an effective job of evoking many different emotions from from sympathy to optimism to humor. I would also recommend this film for a broad audience - good work!

Never give up

[michelle-78565 · 10/10 · 15 February 2023]

Even there is a pain in my life but I understood I am not the unluckiest one for sure.please take good care of yourself and the people around you. A little help sometimes could change people's life. Wishes no more shelter that's mean no more people got hurts.wishes have more shelter that's showed lots of people could got kind and care.

Even People could not far way form hard time.but still needed keep good wishes bad lucky can be changed to good lucky Goodwill is the top thing in the universe. Never give up Goodwill for ever.

Sophie she looks as cold face but deep heart is very warm.her rule is find out how to help people. Small magic in the park showed magic hands .

Watch Sophies rules

[Operation88872 · 9/10 · 1 March 2023]

Touching threads of folks who are struggling being given a supposed temporary safety zone. Broken systems around the works are not able to care for people they govern. Veterans are to be treated with dignity and respect not forgotten. Sophie imposes rules and she has to follow them, also while making it possible for her to help people in need. PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, grief mental anguish of all kinds are often not understandable can lead to different outcomes. This is a descent touching film that hits the heart and has a cute finish. Comedy drama? More drama and not so much comedy. I recommend this.

Life lessons

[Resyvodomsky · 9/10 · 26 February 2023]

This film advocates all that stand for in life. I didn't expect to end up cryin at the end of it the way I did. A part of me cried because I wish I had somebody to help me through my ptsd and my alcoholic trembles amd black outs and difficult times when I thought I am alone. Somebody to talk to when I lost everything. I struggle to this day I am 266 days sober. The film showed harsh realities in a hard world. Ups and downs can happen. One day smiling next day down in the dumps. Sophie needs rules that end up broken and keep them. Harsh realities is so many homeless who don't have a chance. Die in the cold no food no roof to sleep under. Beautiful film loss is real.

Powerful and unpredictable

[Janos-Istvan · 10/10 · 7 February 2023]

Directors Christina Tsialtas and Maritza Brikisak did a awesome job portraying the hardships of the characters. Most horror fans already know Maritza, who's also the leading actress in the movie, from cult movies like The Lurking Man, she shows her versatility here. The cinematography of Christina Tsialtas makes the atmosphere of the film dreamlike and beautiful. What makes the movie even more memorable is that it is very unpredictable, there are lots of twists and turns, action and even violence. So even though the main theme, at least for me, is goodness and helping each other out, the surprises and the action never stop.

Melding of stories well done

[qhxbfvny · 9/10 · 19 February 2023]

Never heard of these Directors or writers, understandable since it's an independent film. Stories were strong ( PTSD felt real) and in some cases heart wrenching; would of liked to know more in the sub plots, there are some unknowns that needed more or not so rushed . Story felt almost docudrama ish, which is why more background on sub plots would have heightened the ending. I appreciate the idea of the homeless shelter, although it felt upscale ish, the idea appealed to me. The actors were believable and well done with they're portrayals. Sophie felt stern yet caring leading the group of past/ current members of her house. Cinematography captured the actors in their vulnerable portrayals and I really enjoyed the outdoor scenes. All in all good work on the collaboration melding a few into one.

This film will touch your heart.

[dcohen-94398 · 10/10 · 3 March 2023]

An independent "small budget" film that has something big to say about the people who find themselves lost, and considered collateral damage in a society that knows the price of everything, but the value of nothing. From a mother who has a son in the military go MIA, and refuses to believe he's actually gone, and by holding on to that belief, becomes estranged from her husband and friends. She meets the rest of the characters, all broken in different ways. Some are in physical danger, all are in emotional turmoil. But they all have the good fortune of meeting Sophie. She knows that the "official" programs can be insufficient, and sets up a home/shelter to let these people heal. It's an emotional journey for all. In summary, this film will put you in touch with your humanity. I feel enriched after watching it.

Heartwarming!

[95ceilidh · 10/10 · 16 March 2023]

Moving film about a retired nurse helping people who seem to be forgotten and need help. It concludes with a positive finish filled with struggles while trying to keep going. All characters showed us pain and smiles, much like life. Fear can be overcome, hardships can still have a nice ending, and we all live life and death happens to those we love. Directors Christina Tsialtas and Maritza Brikisak gave us a powerful look behind this pretty exterior that houses people in various forms of distress. Physical, mental anguish and abuse all played out well in the lives that reside in and out of this home hoping for something better. I highly recommend this heartwarming film.

Sophie's rules

[bettycarta · 10/10 · 2 March 2023]

I liked it, a moving film that gives nice positive vibes. Different moments were pretty exciting.

Congrats to all the actors for the good performance. I watched Maritza in the horror movie, The Lurking Man, here she played in totaly different role but was tot great., a sign of a good actress :D the message of the movie is very deep, specially in those days where person are so indifferent eachother, mark how all could be different with a good heart and how is possible help other is a good positive message Congrats for the good atmosphere, cool cinematography too.. Also nice place where it was recorded.

M LeMont rates Sophie's Rules 10 Big Stars

[bob-34316 · 10/10 · 3 March 2023]

I recently had the pleasure of watching Sophie Rules, and I must say that it is truly a gem of a film. The story revolves around Sophie, a retired nurse who transforms her home into a transition shelter. The movie beautifully explores the lives of a diverse group of people who seek refuge in the Cottonwood residence.

The characters are so well-developed, and the talented cast brings them to life with great depth and sensitivity. From a terminally ill woman to an alcoholic magician, a PTSD veteran, a young drug addict, and a grieving mother, each character's story is poignant, heart-wrenching, and ultimately uplifting.

The movie does an outstanding job of emphasizing the shared experiences we have as human beings, regardless of our dissimilarities. It is a reminder that we all experience sadness and seclusion in our own unique ways and that extending support to one another is what paves the way towards a better world.

The plot of Sophie Rules is exceptional and captivates your interest from beginning to end. It's a poignant story that elicits powerful emotions and inspires you. If Sophie were a real person, I would be thrilled to express my appreciation for her selflessness and kindness by writing her a check to support her shelter.

Overall, I highly recommend Sophie Rules. It's a must-see movie that deserves 10 big stars. The acting, direction, and writing are all top-notch, and it is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

One of the most impactful and heartwarming films

[christineangelaperalta · 10/10 · 19 March 2023]

Sophie's Rules is one of the most heart warming films out there. There are a variety of storylines that each character brings, which ultimately provides viewers with an understanding of many different hardships and circumstances. Despite the very different back stories of the characters, the writers and producers did a great job at intertwining and connecting the characters to create a perfect, seamless storyline. The main takeaway message in my opinion was that there is always a light at the end of tunnel, and you don't need much to help another person. Would highly recommend watching this, especially in this day and age.

Heartwarming film

[amycitron · 9/10 · 20 March 2023]

I enjoyed watching the ensemble cast in this heartwarming film. The way they found a "family" together and all supported each other was so nice to watch. Enjoyed watching "Sophie's" acting very much. Seemed quite authentic. She was very believable as an empathetic, kind, yet firm woman who runs the house. Christina Tsialtis and Maritzka Brikisak did a great job directing. I enjoyed the interwoven stories of the various characters. It definitely kept me interested and invested to see what would come of them. I felt satisfied by the ending, I like how it all wrapped up. I would definite recommend this movie to anyone.

Sophie's Rules

[molonlaberick · 10/10 · 19 March 2023]

I thoroughly enjoyed this and earnestly recommend anyone and everyone watch it. I found it to be a heart-tugging storyline and was very moved by the crosses each of the characters was bearing and the realistic, though certainly not always positive manner with which each was confronting them.

While I know nothing about film making, it seems astounding that the people involved in this production were able to create such art within the constraints of a budget so small. They clearly were more concerned with their craft and the telling of the emotional story than making a bundle of money off of their film.

In summary, I was touched and entertained, and hope all who had a hand in it are satisfied and proud of the wonderful result of their efforts.

Truly enjoyed

[mrlukki · 9/10 · 13 March 2023]

An excellent cast of characters, each struggling. Their stories still resonate with me, not in despair but hope.

Back to the characters, though each one suffers, they come together for moments of clarity, caring and understanding. You get to truly know each of the people and begin to worry.

The film was made in a lovely neighborhood filled with large homes. Many of the scenes are filmed outdoors which helps to soften some of the high stakes drama portrayed. Perhaps my favorite scene is when a young woman scars herself to try and escape from a life of drugs and prostitution. Her desperation immense...

It makes me cry

[olenatheodorou · 10/10 · 25 March 2023]

I love this movie!

Watched it twice and for sure will watch again.

It started kinda slow for me, but then ..the story is very touching, very sad.

I ask my boyfriend to watch this with me and in the beginning I can tell, that he's not taking this serious, but then i can see his face changing , I know that he can relate to some of the characters, and he was quite till the end of the movie.

All the characters are real, they are around us, maybe it's me, or you, or someone you know. All their struggles, all the difficulties are real. Hundreds of people walk by you everyday on the street, you don't know them, they don't don't know you. You don't know their struggles, they don't care how many demons you have to fight to survive.. Sophie cares, you just must follow Sophie's rules.

I totally recommend this to everyone.

Beyond my expectations

[Cartersviews55 · 10/10 · 16 March 2023]

This little production had a slow start and built steam as it continued as it build layers for all the different people in the thread of stories. Directors Christina Tsialtas & Maritsa Brikisak gave us pain and fighting to survive in todays times in a color full company of humans. From married couple who are dealing with their sons disappearance to Sophie who seems like a tough as nails head of a home for transitioning from a group of people who each have their problems.

Common people with problems that deal with substance to mental abuse all under the care of the home that has its own problems staying afloat.

Cast members were believable in their struggles the sick woman who giggled and showed us pain to blue the big security guy. The whole group did very well.

Cinematography had a raw quality filled with color and felt dream like and reality mixed in.

All in all I really enjoyed the whole storylines. I applaud the first time Directors.