SXSW: Crestone
The end of the world is nigh but this doesn’t stop a group of SoundCloud rappers living in seclusion in Crestone, Colorado from smoking weed and making music. This hybrid film is highly relevant in our coronavirus driven world.
SXSW: The Donut King
Filmmaker Alice Gu’s new documentary The Donut King follows the dramatic rise and fall of Ted Ngoy, a Cambodian refugee who started a donut empire and the enduring legacy of one of America’s most beloved pastries.
SXSW: I’ll Meet You There
I’ll Meet You There is a heartfelt story following three generations of a Pakistani-American family in Chicago as they forge their own destinies.
SXSW: Figurant
A short Czechian drama about a middle-aged man whose curiosity got the better of him as he finds himself hired for a mystery job.
NewFest: All We’ve Got
A fairly unpolished yet important documentary explores the decline in lesbian community spaces with a focus on the ones that are still thriving.
TIFF: A Herdade
The newest film from Portuguese director Tiago Guedes, A Herdade is a sprawling family saga. Gorgeously shot, firmly rooted in Portuguese culture but is overly long.
TIFF: Pelican Blood
Set in the bucolic countryside of Germany, Pelican Blood tells the story of Wiebke, an adoptive mother and talented horse trainer. It’s at her horse camp there that she trains … Continue Reading TIFF: Pelican Blood
TIFF: The Moneychanger
Directed by Federico Veiroj, The Moneychanger (Asà habló el cambista) paints the portrait of a man who is simply up to no good.
TIFF: Hope
Directed by Maria Sødahl and based on a true story, Hope is a heart-wrenching tale of a woman who must face her terminal cancer diagnosis and at the same time mend her broken relationship.
TIFF: Knuckle City
Director Jahmil X.T. Qubeka’s South African boxing film Knuckle City is a brutal story about an aging boxer who will do anything to survive.
TIFF: White Lie
Directed by Calvin Thomas and Yonah Lee, White Lie tells the story of a college student who fakes cancer. A taut and compelling drama.
TIFF: While at War
Director Alejandro Amenábar’s While at War/Mientras dure la guerra about writer Miguel de Unamuno’s last stand during the Spanish Civil War offers a grand production and fine performances but lacks in emotion.
TIFF: Sea Fever
An enthralling sci-fi film from Irish filmmaker Neasa Hardiman. Feels both classic and brand new. Stays true to its story and doesn’t rely on splashy special effects to be thrilling.
Maniac Landscapes
Maniac Landscapes is a hypnotic dream… a beautiful nightmare. The newest animated short horror film from filmmaker Matthew Wade.
SXSW Interview: Amy C. Elliott, director of Salvage
At the recent SXSW Film Festival, I had the pleasure of chatting with the documentary filmmaker Amy C. Elliott. Her latest film Salvage had its world premiere on opening night. … Continue Reading SXSW Interview: Amy C. Elliott, director of Salvage
SXSW 2019: AMA and Festival Recap
SXSW festival recap and my thoughts on the experience. I answer questions submitted through Twitter.