The weekend saw the release of several highly anticipated indie films, including Bleecker Street’s “Out Of Darkness.” This survival horror, previously titled “The Origin,” had its premiere at the London BFI Film Festival last year. Directed by Andrew Cummings, the film has already garnered positive reviews, with a breakthrough performance by Safia Oakley-Green. “Out Of Darkness” follows a group of six individuals who are desperate for a new home. They find themselves starving, desperate, and living 45,000 years ago. In search of shelter, they embark on a treacherous journey across the tundra. However, as night falls, they soon realize that they are not alone in their struggles.
The Monk And The Gun
Another notable release this weekend was “The Monk And The Gun,” Bhutan’s shortlisted entry for the International Feature category. Directed by Pawo Choyning Dorj, this film comes from the writer/director of 2019’s “Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom,” which was Bhutan’s first-ever Oscar-nominated film. “The Monk And The Gun” is a comic political and spiritual fable about an American who travels to Bhutan in search of treasure. The film also made its mark at the Toronto International Film Festival. With its unique storyline and cultural backdrop, “The Monk And The Gun” offers audiences a fresh and engaging cinematic experience.
The Taste Of Things
IFC Films presented “The Taste Of Things (The Pot-au-Feu),” directed by Trần Anh Hùng. This film pays homage to French cuisine and the art of cooking. Trần Anh Hùng, the director of “The Scent Of Green Papaya,” won the Best Director award at Cannes for his work on “The Taste Of Things.” The film stars Benoît Magimel and Juliette Binoche, portraying an illustrious gourmand and his talented cook partner in late nineteenth-century France. While “The Taste Of Things” stirred some controversy as France’s Oscar submission, it still managed to make the International Feature shortlist. With its focus on food, culture, and love, this film promises to delight audiences with its delectable storytelling.
Perfect Days
“Perfect Days,” directed by Wim Wenders, is Japan’s official Oscar submission and has already been nominated for the prestigious award. The film opened at six locations in New York and Los Angeles on Wednesday, with plans to expand to additional cities next week. Written by Wenders and Takuma Takasaki, “Perfect Days” tells the story of Hirayama, a public toilet cleaner in Tokyo. Hirayama initially finds contentment in his simple life, but a series of unexpected encounters reveals a hidden past. With its complex characters and thought-provoking narrative, “Perfect Days” offers an exploration of identity, relationships, and the human experience.
Belgian director Bas Devos brings “Here” to audiences. Known for his work on “Ghost Tropic,” Devos takes viewers on a journey through unexpected connections. The film centers around Stefan, a Romanian construction worker living in Brussels, who meets a Belgian-Chinese woman researching mosses for her doctorate. Their encounter disrupts Stefan’s plans to return home and opens up new possibilities. “Here” premiered in the Encounters section at the Berlin International Film Festival, where it received critical acclaim and awards. With its exploration of human connection and personal growth, “Here” offers a deep and contemplative viewing experience.
“Drift,” directed by Anthony Chen, had its opening in New York City at the Quad and will soon expand to additional locations. Chen, known for his work on “The Breaking Ice,” makes his English-language debut with this film. Based on Alexander Maksik’s novel “A Marker To Measure Drift,” “Drift” follows the journey of Cynthia Erivo’s character, a Liberian refugee struggling to survive on a Greek island. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, “Drift” received positive reviews for its emotional depth and powerful performances. This poignant story of resilience and survival resonates with audiences, highlighting the struggles faced by refugees worldwide.
Ennio
Lastly, “Ennio” by Giuseppe Tornatore is making its first release in the United States after premiering at the Venice Film Festival in 2021. The film is set to open at the Film Theater and will later head to Los Angeles. “Ennio” pays tribute to the late Italian composer Ennio Morricone, who scored over 400 films throughout his career. Directed by Tornatore, known for his work on “Cinema Paradiso,” this documentary explores Morricone’s prolific contribution to the world of film. With its engaging storytelling and captivating music, “Ennio” is a must-watch for fans of Morricone’s iconic compositions.
This weekend showcased a range of compelling indie films that offer unique narratives and meaningful viewing experiences. From survival horror to thought-provoking dramas, these releases demonstrate the diversity and creativity within independent cinema. Whether audiences are drawn to tales of resilience, human connection, or culinary delights, these films are sure to captivate and inspire. So, next time you’re looking for a movie to watch, consider exploring the world of indie cinema and discover the magic that awaits on the screen.