The festival started officially on a slow note for me today as both my first films were slow paced. Asking someone not to text during the following film and a somewhat bizarre film wrapped up a mediocre first day.
ELENA (Russia) is a story about a woman Elena who is married to a well off man Vladmir. Vladmir doesn't approve of Elena still supported her adult sun and his family. Even on his death bed, he wants to leave much of his estate to his daughter, leaving Elena with monthly payments. Right after his death, Elena disposes of his final written wish, taking more for her, her son and his family. While this film is beautifully shot, it's pacing will be a test of patience for most, especially in the first 5 minutes. Sadly none of the characters seemed redeeming to me, though some will argue Elena's concern for her son and grandson is worth it - he should just get a job. Thriller this film is not.
2/5 plays October 8th at 930pm and Monday October 10th at 4pm
ONCE UPON A TIME IN ANATOLIA (Bosnia and Herzogovina, Turkey)
A group of policemen search the Turkish countryside for a body buried somewhere. The hook of the film lies in exactly that, but it doesn't get more exciting than that. Another slow paced film, conversations fill out a lot of screentime, some almost philosophical while another story appears to be just that until it is finally revealed not to be. You do feel every minute of this film, wondering when its going to end as every detail plays out, where normally it would be left out, such as the details of writing a report. Personally, the best part of the film came in starting at 90 minutes and lasts under 30 minutes, after which, some could start time checking.
2/5 plays Wednesday October 5th at 9pm and Thursday October 6th at 9pm
LIKE CRAZY (USA)
Anna is a UK student who overstays her student visa in order to spend more time with her American boyfriend Jacob. After a quick trip home, she is refused entry again to the US. The couple, now separated, try to make it work as they go through ups and downs. Not quite your typical love story, but does a great job story-wise and character development in showing the good and bad in a long distance relationship. People grow apart, people miss each other. At the end of the day, more than love is necessary. Stars Felicity Jones and Jennifer Lawrence as well.
3/5 plays Friday October 7th at 1140am
KILL LIST (UK)
Not quite sure what you might be expecting to walk into here. At times things seem amiss as we go from domestic outbursts to one last contract for a pair of hitmen - you really have to read the write up to get a sense of the plot. Shocking? Not quite despite the violence. Disturbing? Somewhat. Confusing? Yes - but maybe that's just to me. I think I'll stick with Kill Bill next time.
2.5/5 plays Friday September 30th at 420pm and Saturday October 1st at 1130pm
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