Director C.J. ‘Fiery’ Obasi’s gorgeous looking mythical thriller MAMI WATA – A West African Folklore had won the cinematography award in the World Cinema section of Sundance. It just had its Canadian Premiere in the Camera Lucida section of Fantasia, which is devoted to films that represent new directions in cinema.
Passages
Even though most of it is in English, Ira Sachs’ Outfest LA Centerpiece selection PASSAGES is a very French relationship drama. Franz Rogowski completely embodies his despicable character and his chemistry with both Adele Exarchopoulos and Ben Whishaw is off the charts. Passages received an NC-17 rating from MPAA, which resulted in MUBI deciding to […]
Red Rooms
Psychological serial killer thriller RED ROOMS opened Fantasia International Film Festival last night. After a courtroom setup, which reminded me of Saint Omer, it went to a completely different direction. Great camera work, Dominique Plante’s score, and Juliette Gariépy’s icy lead performance contribute to what is a unique and disturbing film you won’t be able […]
T Blockers
If indie queer horror sounds like your thing, head over to Outfest virtual platform to watch 18-year-old Australian director Alice Maio Mackay’s T Blockers. Creating a visually and thematically satisfying film on a shoestring budget, she seems ready to helm a studio project. Hope it happens soon!
Break The Game
BREAK THE GAME is a compelling documentary with a lot on its mind including transphobia, depression, cyberbullying, social media addiction, and romance. I think it will give hope to people who find themselves in a dark place from time to time. Streaming as part of Outfest LA virtual lineup.
Commitment To Life
COMMITMENT TO LIFE from I Am Divine director Jeffrey Schwarz chronicles the AIDS crisis with an emphasis on Los Angeles. Even if you are familiar with the era, you will likely find some of the material revealing. The well-executed documentary is part of the Outfest virtual lineup this week.
Down Low
Rightor Doyle’s uproarious and bawdy black comedy DOWN LOW with Zachary Quinto and Lukas Gage is unexpectedly warm-hearted at times. Gage, who co-wrote the script, is the MVP here and there are memorable turns from Judith Light, Simon Rex, and Audra McDonald. It is included in the Outfest LA virtual lineup.
Fancy Dance
Erica Tremblay’s FANCY DANCE is a gripping Native American mystery and family drama that builds up to a memorable emotional finale. Lily Gladstone is outstanding here and I can’t wait to see her in Scorsese’s Killers of The Flower Moon. Fancy Dance is available to watch this week only on Outfest LA virtual platform.
Mutt
I have a soft spot for good looking, authentic NYC films. Vuk Lungulov-Klutz’s MUTT starring Lio Mehiel as a trans man having an intense day is one such film that gives insight into the transition process and leaves a lasting impression. It is now available to watch virtually via Outfest and will be in theaters […]
Outfest LA Virtual Lineup
You can now rent and watch many of the 2023 Outfest LA selections online. Additional films will be available to watch next Monday. Here’s a Letterboxd list of the features in their virtual lineup: https://letterboxd.com/filmfestival/list/outfest-la-2023-virtual-lineup/