After seeing about 25 full-length feature films, documentaries and narratives, short films, and even a VR experience, not one was a disappointment. Here are my top five films, although, to be honest, they are in no particular order and my “honorable mention list” could easily be placed in the top five. In other words, you have a lot of great films to look forward to seeing!
TULLY: Diablo Cody (“Juno,” “Young Adult”) writes her third feature film with the utmost honesty about life as a mother. Starring Charlize Theron as Marlo, the overwhelmed mother of two active children, one with special needs, and a newborn, bites the bullet and takes her brother up on his offer to gift her a “night nanny.” This nocturnal version of Mary Poppins, Tully (Mackenzie Davis), shows up and life becomes controlled and good again. Or does it? “Tully” is one of the most raw and dramatically accurate portrayals of motherhood to hit the silver screen, while always keeping a sense of humor. (Opens May 4)
STOCKHOLM: Ethan Hawke stars in this film based on the true story that gave psychologists the term “Stockholm Syndrome.” As the good-hearted and not so bright bank robber, Lars (Hawke) holds three Swedish bank employees hostage in order to free his best friend from prison. Hostage Bianca (Noomi Rapace) and Lars find themselves attracted to one another despite their potentially grave situation. Filled with comedic elements and timing from Hawke, it’s another case of truth is stranger than fiction that is sure to entertain and delight you.
WOMAN WALKS AHEAD: Steven Knight (“Locke,” “Hundred Foot Journey”) writes and Susanna White directs this historically based film about Catherine Weldon, a portrait artist in the late 1800’s who travels from NYC to the Dakotas to paint Sitting Bull’s portrait. Met with dangerous resistance from the military, Weldon gains a far greater understanding of what was truly happening out West. Her relationship with Sitting Bull is heart-wrenchingly beautiful and the story highlights issues that are remarkably relevant even today. Jessica Chastain, Michael Greyeyes and Sam Rockwell star in this gritty story told through the lens of a woman like no other Western has ever done.
LOVE, GILDA: Director Lisa D’Apolito creates a flawless story about one of the most iconic female comedians in the 20th century---Gilda Radner.