⭐⭐⭐ 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 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
⭐⭐⭐ 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)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 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
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ All of Us Strangers isn’t just a film that stays with you—it resonates deeply, leaving an indelible mark on your heart. Its narrative unfolds like a delicate puzzle, occasionally enigmatic but profoundly rewarding as each piece clicks into place. The story demands both your attention and your emotions, culminating in a conclusion that is as poignant as it is unforgettable. The film, written and … Continue reading All of Us Strangers
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mascarpone is a charming little film that feels like a small, indulgent slice of life. At the center of the story is Antonio, portrayed with an effortless charm by Giancarlo Commare. What makes his performance so gripping is how raw and honest it feels—there’s no overacting or theatricality, just a genuine portrayal of someone trying to piece their life back together. The plot doesn’t … Continue reading Mascarpone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Some films can draw you in so deeply that they linger in your thoughts long after they’ve ended. Sunflower, directed and written by Gabriel Carrubba, is one of those films. This remarkable piece of Australian cinema weaves a heartfelt tale of self-discovery, brought to life by Liam Mollica’s absorbing portrayal of the protagonist, Leo. With its striking visual style and an evocative soundtrack, the … Continue reading Sunflower (2023)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Luca Guadagnino’s Bones and All defies simple categorization as a hit or miss; it’s an experience that lingers long after viewing. This romantic horror film intricately weaves a grotesque and profoundly human narrative. Set in the stark, haunting landscapes of the 1980s Midwest, it is the story of two young cannibals, Maren (Taylor Russell) and Lee (Timothée Chalamet), whose shared darkness creates an unexpected … Continue reading Bones & All
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Some films resonate deeply, not just for their storytelling but for the personal connections they evoke. Benny & Joon has a special place in my heart. Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and written by Barry Berman, with a screenplay by Berman and Lesley McNeil, this 1993 gem beautifully intertwines heartfelt drama and quirky humor in a captivating and enduring way. The film features stellar performances from … Continue reading Benny & Joon
FRANK'S FILM REVIEW 