source: Juniper

Individuals seeking to sort out their personal challenges sometimes need to work together to achieve meaningful results. What's more, strange as it may seem, these situations often call for the formation of unlikely pairings to attain desired outcomes. Such is the case in writer-director Matthew J. Saville's debut feature about the unusual and stormy but beneficial relationship between a troubled teen (George Ferrier) mourning the loss of his mother and his prickly, salty-tongued English grandmother (Charlotte Rampling), a retired, independently minded war correspondent with a drinking problem who's convalescing from a severely broken leg at the family's remote New Zealand farm. What begins as a reluctant, seriously strained connection between two nonconformists gradually evolves into a knowing bond between a pair of mavericks who recognize, celebrate and act upon their unconventional impulses, acts that allow them to fulfill their potential as strong-willed individuals who aren't timid about fully and freely being themselves. In many ways, this is not the kind of association that one would expect to develop under circumstances like these, a development that gives this story a fresh take on intergenerational relations. But that's also why the film disappoints somewhat by ultimately falling back on a somewhat predictable narrative line and not allowing its innate strength to become as fully fleshed out as it could have been, particularly where the revelation of motivations is concerned. Nevertheless, those shortcomings are made up for by the picture's gorgeous cinematography of rural New Zealand, as well as the excellent break-out performance of Ferrier and the positively outstanding portrayal of Rampling, who handily turns in some of the best work of her career here. "Juniper" may not live up to everything it could have been, but it has a lot going for it that's well worthwhile, especially in its ability to move audience members as the story plays out. Enjoy what makes this moving comedy-drama work, but be sure to keep those hankies handy.

Another hidden little gem. I spotted her name on some article and found it. The story is fairly predictable, old grandmother, alienated suicidal grandson, absentee father. But Charlotte is a force to be reckoned with. Alcoholic, enraged, violent and rude. There is no quick resolution to all the tension she creates around her. And some scenes are downright funny. Especially when she assaults a clergyman who is trying to prepare her to meet her maker. The slow meeting of the minds of herself and her grandson has no 2X4s. Very subtle and moving. 8/10- from me. Well worth the watch. Supporting cast was flawless.

A slow moving film,more a study in character and acting.charlotte rampling the sixties icon not afraid to show her age.her study in age and truth,things lost roads not taken is dealt with great aplomb.the small but valuable supporting cast is very good.her vinegary put downs and side swipes hide a very brittle person.very reminiscent of Mrs havisham the way she manipulates people around her like chess pieces.death is also dealt with in the physical and mental acceptance of it.the choice of music good but not intrusive.an overall small independent film that deserves a better release.well worth an hour and half of your time.

Juniper is a very sweet and poignant piece, which has some truly emotional and punchy moments. It is entirely predictable but this doesn't detract too much from its impact. The performances are solid, if nothing particularly impressive. The tone and style of the piece are all quite effective. There are very few bells and whistles with this film. It has a small cast and lets the story and characters speak for themselves. There is something lacking from it which stops it being something truly special, and I can't quite put my finger on what it is. I think some of the characters could have been crafted a tad better and some greater nuance injected into certain moments. However, it is still a very enjoyable and poignant film which you shouldn't let slip under the radar. Well worth a watch for sure.

Juniper is a film about the unlikely bond between a troubled teenager and his estranged grandmother, set in rural New Zealand in the 1990s. The film is driven by the superb performance of Charlotte Rampling as Ruth, a former war photographer who has become an alcoholic recluse with a sharp tongue and a dark past. George Ferrier plays Sam, her grandson who is sent to live with her after being suspended from school for self-harm. The two clash at first, but gradually find solace and healing in each other's company. The film is not without flaws. The plot relies on some contrived devices and coincidences, and some of the supporting characters are underdeveloped. The tone shifts between comedy and tragedy, sometimes awkwardly. However, the film also has moments of beauty and poignancy, especially when it explores Ruth's backstory and Sam's inner turmoil. The cinematography captures the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, creating a contrast between nature and human suffering. Juniper is both a coming-of-age film and an end-of-the-line film. It shows how life can be cruel and unpredictable, but also worth living. It may not be a masterpiece, but it is worth watching for Rampling's captivating presence.

You know exactly where this movie is going, so sit back and enjoy the ride. The cinematography is beautiful. Charlotte Rampling is, as always, superb, and the other actors do well, too. What's not to like?

Super powerful family dynamic movie that will get you right in the feels I wasn't sure at first but then there was a little change in the plan, I don't want to give it up. But incredible slice of life movie. Totally worth seeing.

A little gem with a good script and good acting. The star is the great Charlotte Rampling as Ruth the grandmother and young actor George Ferrier is the grandson Sam. Ruth and Sam have some funny interactions and dramatic ones too. It's the story of an unresolved emotional loss by a father (Robert) and son (Sam) and then the father's mother (Ruth) shows up. Ruth is an alcoholic addicted to gin, which I think gives the movie it's title, juniper berries are the main flavoring in gin. There have probably been movies with similar plots, but this one set In New Zealand is well acted. A real treat to see Charlotte Rampling in a movie.

Well at first you expect so much from this movie, but after ten minutes from the movie, it disappoints you, because all the events were predictable. The story tempo is so slow that sometime you wanna skip some scenes. The movie has unique times like watching the sunset for the last time that it was so dramatic and George Gerrier played so good in expressing his feelings (like how he holds her grandma's arm and kisses her shoulder times and times).