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The Watcher (2022)
Eerie and intriguing from the first frame
From the very first frame to the last, The Watcher unfolds on a rounded TV screen reminiscent of the Television sets from the past 'setting' the tone to what we're about to see: a slow eerie psychological chiller draped in muted colors that masterfully draws you into the main character's psyche as she performs her last rites. It's a powerful story that not only questions religious devotion but also what's real and what's not. With barely any words other than the disturbingly calm almost friendly overhead voice - sort of a wizard-of-oz entity - one cannot help but be disturbingly captivated. Beautifully and meticulously shot, written and directed by Nathan Sellers (who also produced the fitting atmospheric music) The Watcher is an exquisite film that leaves you guessing long after the last frame.
Mandarins (2023)
Full of heart and introspection.
When I saw "Mandarins" at the New Hampshire Film Festival I was immediately taken by its profound and very relatable story about family dynamics. Brilliantly written and directed by Chelsie Penello, this dramedy artfully portraits the ins and outs of a dysfunctional family during a most stressful of times. Inter-generational conflict and flawed sibling relationships are all out in the open, when protagonist Olivia (Christine Chang) makes a surprise appearance at her estranged family's mother's funeral service. Even though we may initially cringe at Olivia's "inappropriate" funeral speech we actually root for her and hope that her catharsis may ultimately bring about some needed healing. Beautifully acted by all, I especially loved Sarai Koo's portrayal of Olivia's older sister who delivers some much needed comic relief. This is a film full of heart and introspection that we all - as part of our wonderfully diverse human family - can relate to.
Welcome to the Enclave (2023)
Beautifully haunting and a powerful message.
From the very first second of Sarah Lasley's fast paced "Welcome to the Enclave" film the viewer is catapulted into an alternative reality which - idyllic and innocent on the outside - turns into a menacing and disturbing rabbit hole. It eerily reminded me of the 1975 satirical suburban film "Stepford Wives". Lasley masterfully captures the dangers of our times where humanity's so-called technological advances don't have the foresight to build in escape routes. To create the digital neighborhood, the director artfully and meticulously combines animation and live-action avatars in a 3D simulated environment. This is a timely and important film to watch... it will still be in your head after you leave the cinema - and that's a good thing.
O Pioneer (2023)
A stunning documebtary film about what it means to be a pioneer today
I had the pleasure to watch O Pioneer at the Cucalorus Film Festival in Wilmington, NC. And it was an absolute delight! This feature interweaves animation, documentary and history into one beautiful tapestry redefining what it means to be a pioneer today. The film is shot in Virginia and the cinematography (by Jonathan Lacocque) is stunning. Living life in the midst of the Covid pandemic, the film follows the trials and tribulations but also the triumphs of the three main characters - a seamstress, a hospital chaplain, and a blacksmith as they make the best of their situation. Told in an original (beautifully narrated by lyricist and musician Kaïa Kater), tender and intelligent way (masterfully written by Clara Lehman), O Pioneer invites the viewer to go on a journey of rediscovery and reinvention with these extraordinary individuals whose open vulnerability touches our hearts and souls. Highly recommended.
You Go to My Head (2017)
Enthralling Hitchcockian Love Tale
I had the great pleasure of seeing YOU GO TO MY HEAD when the film had its premiere on the big screen in New York City. I thoroughly enjoyed this Hitchcockian twisted love tale that brilliantly manages to play with one's head. Pun intended! Its breathtaking cinematography, masterful direction by Dimitri De Clercq and flawless performance by the actors keeps you enthralled until the credits roll.