Loving Annabelle Reviews

• You don't realize its so great until it's over

  
  By A2IJGTLFCSY0NF on 2006-10-13
  This movie is fantastic. You don't really realize how great it is until after its over though. It is a great story. A Catholic Boarding School teacher falls in love with her female student. That's right, it is about lesbians and homosexuality. However, if you are just looking for "lesbian action" don't waste your time with this, its not a sex movie. If on the other hand, you are mature enough to handle such a plot, you'll love it. So after an hour of the student pursuing the teacher and the teacher being wary and afraid to be with her.....well I can't tell you how it ends. What I will say, though, is why it is so great. It does not openly debate, discuss, or point out anything about homosexuality being right, wrong, good, or evil. What it instead does is tell a wonderful tale of romantic, yet forbidden pursuit, and no matter what your stance is on homosexuality in general, you cannot help but hope for a happy ending, and get wrapped up in this love drama. After the movie is over, you think of how bittersweet the story is and poor this and at least that and then it hits you - You have been focusing on love, passion, heartache, and beauty....but NOT about Straight or Gay relationships. That's the beauty of this film. It captures you into a world of pure love drama and you forget that it is about a controversial subject at all. Regardless of your stance in this controversy, all you can focus on while watching is a love story between two human beings. Watch it, you'll love it.
  
  

• Wonderful study of "forbidden" teacher/student love

  
  By AP3R7PFGRNBCS on 2007-02-05
  This new 'hottest movie around' tells a poignant story full of taboo, passion, and hidden lives brimming at the surfaces of these women as they fall deeper into each others worlds. You're carried along watching Simone's more mature "self" struggle to resist the younger, beautiful, and obviously very enlightened, student. Rebellious Annabelle is young and doesn't demonstrate any real concept of consequence, and is focused on acting on her feelings and thoughts. This story is tender, real, controversial and compelling. The film quality is excellent, even if the acting isn't exactly top notch. Stil, the women and settings are beautiful! YES, there is seduction, obviously, and man is it wonderful! The women are just lovely, both actresses are completely sexy and intriguing. I didn't like the ending, but it absolutely dismantles the "double standard" question and says that it isn't OK to seduce students! (but you can also click the 'alternate ending' option in the bonus section to get a happier ending) I loved the way Simone's past was revealed bit by bit along the way; her struggle with heartache and vulnerability - but while possessing intellect and strength at the same time - was so intriguing. The evolving and maturing Annabelle was refreshing, but so was her youthful tenacity in holding on to her own set of values. The way they ultimately let the barrier between them melt away, and find themselves relating as women, unfolds in the "beach house" scene. Very touching. I take away 1 star for not developing this as much as it could have been, therefore, ending it in one hour. The love scene between the women is smokin' hot!
  
  

• Deleted scenes, alternate ending, commentary, etc.

  
  By ARP9MDGT4NKCL on 2006-12-02
  Great movie! One of the things I could NOT find on this page was the following info on the DVD release, THE EXTRA'S. :Behind the scenes featurette (with outtakes & interviews) , AN ALTERNATE ENDING, Commentary with Katherine Brooks & Erin Kelly, AND Deleted Scenes
  
  

• Destined to be Classic

  
  By A3VNC6AN0FOMZG on 2006-12-14
  As some of you may or may not know this film was based off the 1931 German film, "Mädchen in Uniform." Which in it of itself is a lesbian classic. And Loving Annabelle, is destined to be another. If you are one of those people who listen to the commentary, as I am, you'd realize the amazing time constraints that Katherine Brooks was under to get this film shot and the tremendous talent by the actors to do their scenes under that sort of pressure. That only make me appricate this film more.
  
  As far as the film itself, it follows some of the classic "cat and mouse" seductions that many lesbian films have, and like many of those, the climax of the film is the moment when Simone (Diane Gaidry) finally gives into Annabelle's (Erin Kelly) relentless, yet tender advances. However, unlike those films, the controversal under currant of the under-age student/teacher affair and Simone's struggle to curb her fellings make the climax all that more intense.
  
  The storyline is well laid out, although like most films shot under tight time contraints (be it shooting or running time), there are one or two sub-plots that I would have liked to be better explained or explored. The ending is ambiguous, but it leaves you with a feeling of hope. And if you watch the alternate ending (which should have been the true ending in my book)you'll definately walk away with a good feeling as well as closure.
  
  For those of you who appriciate cinematography, this film is beautifully shot. This may be me over-reaching for symbolism, but I think the fact that Simone is photographer-at-heart is reflected in the artistic shots that are thrown in here and there.
  
  As for my overall review, this is one of the best lesbian films to be made this decade and definately makes my top ten. It's well acted, well shot and as I said leaves you with a feeling of hope, as well a wonderful quote at the end from Rilke, who is quoted several times through out the film. I definately give it an A.
  
  

• Provocative and appalling

  
  By A27DHFFWMH042Y on 2007-04-02
  This movie is not about being Lesbian, although it pretends to be. Does being unprofessional and inappropriate somehow lack import when it happens between two women? While there are so many opportunities for Annabelle's TEACHER to draw an appropriate and professional line around Annabelle's attempts at seduction, she seems to be completely unable to do so. Nor is she able to draw the line with a boyfriend she clearly has no interest in, even though she sleeps with him anyway. Nor can this teacher seem to be able to stand up to the Aunt who is her supervisor at work. Simone sets herself up as everybody's doormat - and then wonders why her life falls out from under her. This isn't love, folks. It's seduction, betrayal and lust; which has nothing to do with love. The caring thing for Simone to do would have been to walk away - transfer Annabelle to another classroom, another school, or leave the school herself if she felt her life was getting out of control
  
  Once the "love story" begins, we see no teaching take place. The other students are portrayed as either hostile or understanding, but no one seems to care what is happening to anyone's education, including Annabelle's.
  
  There's a reason the rules exist about teachers and students - and it's not just because people "don't understand." It's because they do. Don't support this tripe. Students everywhere deserve better, and teachers who exhibit this behavior deserve no excuse.
  
  
• Watchable, but I've seen better.
  By A2FH6QO8NPVTZE on 2007-01-19
  I must admit, when it comes to Lesbian Films, most suck. This one didn't, but it wasn't as good as it could have been. The acting seemed a bit stiff to me and there was a lack of emotion and tension. Also the topic was moralisticly questionable. I know these relationships occur, but should they? Should a 30 something year old woman accept the advances of a 16 year old girl? As far as endings go, this one was different and not how people expect 'love stories' to end, but totally appropriate considering the topic and the people involved. If you want to see a nice Lesbian love story with a happy ending, lots of tension and emotion, see 'When Night is Falling'.
  
  
• Great Movie
  By A2S3OTCNMTMFD4 on 2007-01-21
  This is a wonderfuly written and directed movie. All of the actors give moving and compelling performances. I highly recomend this movie.
  
  
• I don't understand...
  By A3537EHSORZWDP on 2007-03-21
  Why are people giving this film so many stars? Not only is the movie incredibly short (a few minutes over an hour, which in and of itself makes it not warrant a $20 price tag), but it is also incredibly bad. Whether it be from a bad script (which it was) or by bad performances, the piece lacked a certain depth that is required for a good movie. This could have been a very good film - it had all the potential, but that potential was never realized.
  
  Lesbian cinema is somewhat lacking in good films. Are we so desperate that we clutch onto any movie we can and call it good? There are standouts like 'Fire', 'When Night Is Falling', and more recently, 'Nina's Heavenly Delights.' Those films are not only contain good, well-rounded plots where even secondary characters are not two-dimensional, but they feature excellent acting performances.
  
  I am a hopeless romantic, and more than anything I want the girl to get the girl in the end. What's unfortunate about this film is that I didn't care in the end if that happened.
  
  I wish I could get a refund for this...
  
  
• guilty pleasure....A+
  By A1Q8KTUNFKLW4X on 2007-05-05
  what more i could say....i stumble into the title in this site...and i took a gamble...most of us know the story, hoping and praying that is good as the reviews....but then, magic! starts slowly, yes is one those things...but for character development!!! studying both annabelle and Simone...and their respective paths...and how both find love in the most onorthodox and inexplicable way...it's not the grossing lesbian explotation film...so guys a token of advise, it's a lesbian movie made by a lesbian for lesbians!!! if you want soft-porn go to that section...if you want candlelights and a romantic movie that takes you to the soul of the heart, then this is your movie!!!!
  
  
• Touching, Beautifully Acted (Spoiler Alert)
  By A2K61F4JD491NF on 2006-12-23
  I have to say that from watching many trailers and music video's I couldn't wait to see this film in full. I wasn't disappointed. Although the relationship between teacher and student covers normally dodgy territory, the viewer couldn't help but fall in love with this pairing. The sexual tension that slowly simmers between Annabelle and Simone is captivating. Every glance and touch, so palpable. I loved how Simone kept fighting Annabelle's advances but you just knew when they did get together it was going to be sooooooo worth it. It really was. My only complaint was that they seemed to get 'discovered' too quickly. We could only just see our heroines locked in a passionate embrace before being prised apart. Kudos to Diane and Erin for playing such convincing parts and having such a wonderful chemistry.
  
  Katherine Brooks is a very talented film-maker, no denying that. The movie is very glossy and beautifully shot.There's some beautiful imagery thtoughout the film which reflects in my opinion, the love that grows between the pair.
  
  My only upset was watching the actor and director commentary with Katherine and Erin. This revealed too much of how the film was made under such tight time constraints that so many scenes were cut or there was too much background noise, so certain sounds were dubbed over by other actresses. Whereas I'm not criticising the production of the movie, I just found that this spoiled the magic for me somehow. Considering how small the budget for this movie was, KB has done a fantastic job. This is definitely one of the best,if not the best lesbian film I've seen. Although it would have been unrealistic, I'd have love to see Annabelle get together with Simone a year down the line. I can't help being a romantic! :o)
  
  
  
• Left with wanting more
  By A3BOM74SCMLBA on 2006-12-27
  Before I start, please understand that I waited a very long time to see this movie and supported the filmmakers on myspace. I saw it in the theaters and was too excited to truly pay attention (and distracted by the laughter of my fellow viewers). I have the DVD and have watched it many times. Unfortunately, after several viewings, I've found many problems with the movie. The editing is choppy and not chronological (Simone wearing necklace, then not wearing it, and then wearing it again). The deleted scenes should not have been deleted, although director Katherine Brooks, who is talented, claims that the scenes were deleted to avoid being melodramatic. The movie is melodramatic, so the scenes should not have been cut. As a result, the movie is too short and leaves you with the feeling that you want more. Finally, the ending is abrupt and leaves too many questions. I too prefer the alternate ending. KB states that she chose the most realistic ending, but that seems odd considering the whole concept of this relationship is unrealistic. To fulfill my fantasies, I would have preferred the "happily ever after" ending. But maybe that's why I don't write movies.
  
  However! In the genre of lesbian film, this movie is by far more superb than most out there. There are hints of influences from other lesbian flicks, but Annabelle is definitely superior. The cinematography is beautiful and the music is perfect. Overall, this will be a lesbian film classic.
  
  
• Best forbidden love story
  By AD8YTXDMEB8BG on 2007-01-26
  I think this is one of the best lesbian movies I've ever seen, it has substance, not your typical sex movie, this movie is about true love.
  
  
• A Film About Living...
  By A3TQ7ZWU3SKRF0 on 2007-01-02
  This film is a thoughtful look at the relationships we can find ourselves constrained in within society. Specifically, the relationships that are considered taboo, or immoral. In the case of Loving Annabelle, we watch Simone (teacher) and Annabelle (student) as they struggle to define their feelings for each other, while slowly coming to realize how those feelings transport their relationship beyond the teacher/student boundaries.
  
  Of course this is a sensitive topic. The handling of Simone's character was done masterfully, as at no point do you feel she is a predator, or a monster. In return, Annabelle is obviously mature beyond her years, and it is easy to see why Simone, an older more settled woman, would find herself attracted to a younger girl.
  
  But more then just the struggles of their unconventional relationship, Simone finds in Annabelle the ability and desire to move back into the world of the emotionally living. It is perhaps that aspect of their relationship which propels the film forward, and ultimately makes it more then simply a look at a taboo subject.
  
  I would like to add though, the reason I found this film worthy of only three stars is due to the ending. Without giving too much away, before the credits roll, stop, hit special features and watch the alternate ending. The alternate ending is actually an extension of the film, and the happily ever after we all hoped for.
  
  
  
  
• WOW!
  By A338TVA8TC9GYS on 2007-03-20
  Purchased this DVD from Amazon.com and have watched it everyday since receiving it. Powerful, tantalizing and realistic are just a few words to describe this movie. I was captivated by Erin Kelly's character Annabelle. Erin is a beautiful and talented actress who will do great things in her career. Diane Gaidry, as her teacher and mentor was outstanding. The love scene is the sexiest I've seen in a movie ever. The ending is sad, but realistic in the times we live in, but you do feel compassion for Simone. These two women were believable from start to finish. Katherine Brooks has a winner here and hopefully will do more in the future. It's very hard to find such a quality film with so much depth. Thanks to everyone involved in Loving Annabelle.
  
  
• Loving All Around!
  By A3H4HQIDG0BL5K on 2007-03-20
  This movie is tastefully done, Kat Brooks is a fabulous writer! The dynamics between the characters are wonderful. In this movie, there's passion, humor, sadness,and hope. Loving Annabelle is definately worth the purchase! Erin and Diane are fantastic! I'm loving it all around!
  
  
• Love this movie
  By ALYDXJJPBKHJR on 2007-03-22
  Before I purchased Loving Annabelle I wanted to rent it. I am rather sick of lesbian movies that just seem fake whether it be the actresses or the script. This movie had me online purchasing it within the first ten minutes of watching it. The womens mannerisms made me believe 100% that they were in love with each other and really into girls. This movie is a must have for anyone's dvd collection.
  
  
• Loving Annabelle
  By ACDPNK5UAKW8R on 2007-05-25
  The acting is terrific but the ending left many questions unanswered. Not unlike the movie it is based upon "Maedchen in Uniform."
  
  
• Straight viewer taken w/ the movies intense attraction of main characters.
  By A1YWIN2RD1LTTG on 2006-12-21
  Though the movie deals w/ a forbidden love, I liked it a lot. I've watched it numerous times since purchasing it only like a month ago. I suck at doing these sort of things. So, I'll just agree w/ all the other positive reviews. THe only thing I didn't like was the ending. But, the ending did seem appropriate.
  
  
• Opinion about Loving Annabelle
  By A2Y96SDMKI2ZUJ on 2007-01-24
  A fabulous film about love and how to fight for love. Very well directed by Katherine Brooks and the actresses are really good too (Erin and Diane).
  
  
• I LOVED IT!
  By AOB4YHIYUSSK7 on 2007-02-02
  I ordered this movie and was very pleased from beginning to end. The only thing i thought could have been better was the ending to the movie but over all it was well thought out and great acting. Another great film in which i thought deserved the awards it received.
  
  
• Loving "Loving Annabelle"
  By A6QKU4SVIAS4U on 2007-02-23
  This is one of the few movies that has ever made me cry. I loved it. Kat Brooks is amazing. The onscreen chemistry between Diane Gaidry and Erin Kelly is great, making the scenes between Simone and Annabelle electrifying. It's an emotional roller coaster well worth the ride. I know a lot of people have a problem with the ending(that's why Kat supplied us with an alternate, happier one)but come on, life doesn't always give us fairy tale endings. It made the movie more true to life. Beautifully written and acted, "Loving Annabelle" is a must see. Thank you Kat Brooks for having the courage to buck conventionality and tackle taboo. It gets five stars from me.
  
  
• Lesbian or not--a beautiful film
  By A3BAR503M04PKU on 2007-03-23
  Though I myself am not gay, I couldn't help but enjoy this film. Erin Kelly as Anabelle steals your heart as does the other school girls in the script. The cinematography is gorgeous. Katherine Brooks has a real eye for color, scene selection and lighting. Though the subject is dark and troubling, the film feels warm and soft. The writing is compelling as you can't help but cheer on something you know isn't right. Remember singing that song by the Police "Don't Stand So Close To Me," because it's so catchy? The same thing with Loving Anabelle...
  
  
• Excellent!
  By A3UWLKQKO31015 on 2007-04-03
  The product came to me brand new. The movie itself is excellent for an independent film.
  
  
• great love story
  By AUDPRZJK9VBTT on 2007-05-07
  great love story with a not so great ending, but worth watching. we've all been there.
  
  
• Loved "Loving"
  By A1LTO0DTCF159P on 2007-06-08
  I loved this film. I really liked how Annabelle was gradual and kept her cool. This tension between Simone and her fiance added to the heat. This was not a film about lesbian sex, which (yes, even as a young horny guy) I really liked. The film focused on the forbidden aspects: Catholic school mixed with homosexuality and a teacher/student relationship equaled a great cocktail. Gotta see this film! I have half a dozen times now...and not just "the scene"!
  
  
• Great Movie with a Poor Ending.
  By A1NM1N5POH3TEL on 2007-07-22
  Loving Ananabelle is well written, well directed, and both stars (Diane Gaidry and Erin Kelly) do excellent work here.
  
  The story does a fine job of showing the venom faced by anyone who chooses to be different from the "norm", whatever that is. Although this movie touches on lesbianism, it is not simply a story about lesbians. And it is not porn, in my opinion. It's more a story about love, about prejudice, ostracism, harassment and about the courage and suffering required of those brave enough to openly leave the safety of the herd.
  
  I would have rated this movie a strong five, had it not been for the ending. The writer/director is certainly a talented artist to have created such a fine and insightful story and to write and direct it so well. But she certainly could have done better on the ending; it was quite disappointing. The alternate ending available was better, but it was still less that adequate.
  
  Overall, I recommend the movie, Loving Annabelle. Be ready for considerable disappointment during the final ten of fifteen minutes, however.
  
  
• Astonishingly beautiful and quixotic
  By A2M7DDME4TJN9T on 2006-12-19
  The moment you start watching the movie, you're already intrigued by the movies story-line and exhilarating imagery in every scene. Katherine Brooks has transformed a romantic and compelling story into a journey. Each segment brings new and touching words with every line. The use of poetic imagery lightens the audience to consider that even this love can be fulfilling, no matter what the circumstances are. You are breath taken by the brilliant acting and entirely captured by the story, wanting more and more every minute. I recommend anyone to watch this movie who is looking for something genuinely touching and not just about sex. I was speechless and completely moved by the film. I assure that you'll be watching this more than once... because you just can't get enough of it.
  
  
• Left me speechless...
  By A3NZP9VADWAE6K on 2007-01-17
  I just finished watching this film. Wow. This was a fantastic film, and I'm amazed that it was made with such a small budget because it was extremely well done. The acting is great, and the story is both believable and deeply emotional; the dialogue and the characters make the story seem perfectly real. Katherine Brooks did an amazing job capturing real emotion, and she told a great story. Normally, I don't think I would be rooting for a student-teacher relationship, but this film was able to capture the image of true love and how love can't be stopped even by society's boundaries; I definitely supported Simone and Annabelle. Erin Kelly (Annabelle) made her character very believable, and Diane Gaidry (Simone) was able to show many emotions without words. The schoolgirls also did wonderful jobs conveying their characters.
  
  I highly recommend this film, but only watch it if you have an open mind.
  
  
  
  
• Great Love Story
  By A3FBTPII0LXIRM on 2007-01-22
  I loved Loving Annabelle. It was a great love story about a teacher and a student and I'm telling all my friends to watch it. Yes there's a lot of movies out there but this one is one of my favorites. By far one of the better Lesbian/love movies. The only thing that I would change would be the ending!
  
  
• Loving Annabelle
  By A2C3SG1BEZLRLF on 2007-02-03
  I love the movie and have been watching it over and over for everyday. Great movie!
  
  

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