Still going strong at maxing out the day and made it home before the rain started. For the first time, I'm making changes to my VIFF schedule regularly, changing films, changing times - perhaps a sign of adaptability, something that one needs during a film festival.
PURE (Sweden)
An extremely strong and well done first feature (you'd never be able to tell) by writer/director Lisa Langseth, which is an adaptation of her own play about a girl on the wrong side of the tracks finding herself through classical music and making a stand to change her life. The score will sweep you away as it does the lead Katarina played hauntingly by Alicia Vikander (a rising star) who draws you into her plight for something better.
4.5/5 playing Tuesday October 11th at 3pm and Thursday October 13th at 930pm
Without (USA)
An apparent break out at Slamdance leaves one shaking their heads in this so called described pyschosexual thriller. Joslyn has taken on a job caring for an old man while the family is away and how she ends up breaking down. The film takes a long time not seeming to go anywhere aside from daily routines and guesses at what is happening that is unseen and not quite explained. While we get the sense the Joslyn is denying and running from some, we're never quite sure, and her actions almost come out of left field, leaving bewilderment as to how it came.
1.5/5 no more screenings
CAIRO 678 (Egypt)
A powerful and evocative drama about 3 women who take it upon themselves to challenge Egyptian society into acknowledging the existence of sexual harassment and obtaining justice for victims. Strong acting from the 3 women strike the core of your heart as you watch them get harassed and how they react and deal with it in their own ways even as they come together. Putting themselves in each other's shoes and needing the support of their family, it's not an easy journey, given the men in their lives who have their own selves to think about, and who you wish would stand up for the one they are supposed to love.
This film screening is preceded by a short "A Man's Shadow" which an exquisite piece that ties in directly with the theme of the feature. Women stepping out of the shadow of men and finding something new and creating something new. Gorgeously photographed and directed with a mesmerizing soundtrack.
4.5/5 plays October 5th at 915pm. Do not miss this.
GOODBYE (Iran)
A long drawn out drama about a pregnant female lawyer who makes preparations to flee Iran at all costs. The action, though little, crawls along slower than a turtle's pace but perhaps is reflective of the nature of the waiting in the film. Repression and women's rights are evident as much of her planning and trips to the doctor require her husband's permission. His absence though increases her challenge given he's somewhat hiding as he writes articles not favorable to the government.
3/5 plays Wednesday October 5th at 345pm
WATER AT THE END OF THE WORLD (Argentina)
Laura and Adriana are two sisters with a plan to visit Tierra del Fugo (or Uschuaia) because Adriana is dying soon. Much of the film is a document of Laura's struggles to raise the money and Adriana's worsening health. Laura's new boyfriend adds to the mix creating tension but also playing a role in getting them there. The commaderie between the sisters does feel quite real, and if you're patient enough to sit through most of the film, you will find a resolution to their goals.
3.25/5 plays Thursday October 6th at 230pm
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