Edge of Seventeen (1998)

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Some films entertain, and then some tap into something deeper—an emotional truth, a lived experience, a slice of life that feels tender and raw. Edge of Seventeen does that, standing out as a heartfelt and powerful look at the messiness of growing up, figuring out who you are, and daring to be yourself. Directed by David Moreton and written by Todd Stephens, this coming-of-age … Continue reading Edge of Seventeen (1998)

Riff Raff

⭐⭐⭐ Riff Raff, a dark comedy written by John Pollono and directed by Dito Montiel, offers an unconventional look at organized crime and family dynamics during a New Year’s Eve holiday. While the film’s deliberate pacing may feel unhurried, this thoughtful artistic choice reflects the natural rhythm of the story and invites viewers to immerse themselves in its layered narrative. At the screening I attended, … Continue reading Riff Raff

Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Liza Minnelli isn’t just a performer; she’s a cultural phenomenon, a one-of-kind entertainer whose impact spans decades. A new documentary, Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story, comes to theaters on March 7 and dives headfirst into Liza’s life and career. Showcasing her brilliant highs, profoundly human lows, and everything in between, the film is a heartfelt and vivid portrait of a legend. The … Continue reading Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story

Two of Us (2019)

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Two of Us is a compelling and heartfelt story about love, loss, and the struggle to stay connected when everything conspires against you. This beautifully filmed story follows two women who share a deep love but are compelled to keep their relationship a secret. To maintain appearances, they live in separate apartments across from each other. However, their delicate arrangement is disrupted when one … Continue reading Two of Us (2019)

What’s Up, Doc?

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Peter Bogdanovich’s What’s Up, Doc? is a masterclass in laughter, chaos, and nostalgia all rolled into one. Released in 1972, this exuberant screwball comedy bursts onto the screen with an energy that grabs your attention from the first ridiculous mishap and never lets go. Anchored by standout performances from Barbra Streisand and Ryan O’Neal, the film is a brilliant homage to classic Hollywood comedies, … Continue reading What’s Up, Doc?

Parthenope

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Paolo Sorrentino’s Parthenope is a stunning visual achievement, merging compelling storytelling with breathtaking imagery. Right from the opening scene, the film envelops its audience in a rich tapestry of atmospheric cinematography. Sorrentino’s artistic touch brings the city of Naples to life, showcasing a vivid contrast between its timeless charm and an underlying melancholy. At the heart of the narrative is Parthenope, a young woman … Continue reading Parthenope

Throuple (2024)

⭐⭐⭐ Throuple, directed by Greyson Horst, is an ambitious indie comedy-drama that boldly explores the complexities of modern relationships. The story follows Michael (Michael Doshier), a lonely gay New Yorker who unexpectedly finds himself in a romantic relationship with a married couple, Connor (Tommy Heleringer) and Georgie (Stanton Plummer-Cambridge). At the same time, Michael struggles with the fear of losing his best friend to her … Continue reading Throuple (2024)

The Monkey

⭐⭐⭐ Inspired by a Stephen King story, The Monkey twists a supernatural premise into a wild blend of horror and dark comedy. It’s strange, chaotic, and impossible to forget—a unique mix that refuses to take itself too seriously. The story starts with twin brothers as young boys exploring their late father’s belongings when they stumble across an old wind-up monkey hidden in a closet. At first, … Continue reading The Monkey

The Prince (2019)

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Watching The Prince, directed by Sebastián Muñoz, is like stepping into a vivid and unrelenting world. It’s the story of Jaime (Juan Carlos Maldonado), a young man whose life takes a sharp turn when he commits a crime and finds himself in the harsh environment of a Chilean prison in the 1970s. As the story progresses, the layers slowly peel back to reveal the reasons … Continue reading The Prince (2019)

God’s Own Country

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Francis Lee’s debut feature, God’s Own Country, is a poignant British romantic drama. The film’s narrative skillfully navigates a soulful love story with profound themes of self-discovery, human connection, and the quest for redemption. Set against the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire landscape, the film offers an emotionally charged experience. The narrative follows Johnny Saxby (Josh O’Connor), a young sheep farmer wrestling with the … Continue reading God’s Own Country