N. Scott Momaday, subject of WORDS FROM A BEAR
Dramatic feature films are the mainstay of any festival, but Sundance is a heavy hitter this year. Two films tackle incarceration: “The Mustang” by Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre and “Clemency” by Chinonye Chukwu, both bringing poignant and deeply layered emotional tales questioning not only our penal system, but humanity. Equally disturbing is Scott Z. Burns’ film “The Report” starring Adam Driver as Dan Jones, the Washington investigator who broke the extreme interrogation tactics used to fight ISIS. And finally, truth is placed on the table as we delve into Ted Bundy’s story in “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile” starring Zac Efron. All of these films are rivetingly complex and will leave an indelible image and reaction.
Sundance surprised us all when “Fighting With My Family” was added to the schedule. Stephen Merchant tells the comedic heartfelt drama of a young British wrestler who followed her dream to become a world wrestling champion. Florence Pugh stars in this role, confirming that she can do anything and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson never ceases to amaze!
And that’s a wrap for the 2019 Sundance Film Festival. With many new voices and faces, Sundance took a risk and we can now reap the reward. Go to www.reelhonestreviews.com for interviews, complete reviews, and red-carpet coverage.
John Lithgow and Blythe Danner, THE TOMORROW MAN
Jim Gaffigan, TROOP ZERO
Directors Bert & Bertie with actress Mckenna Grace TROOP ZERO