THR Critics Pick the Best Films From the Fall Festivals

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THR Critics Pick the Best Films From the Fall Festivals

Apocalypse in the Tropics

As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of cinema, I must say that this year’s lineup at Venice and Telluride festivals is nothing short of breathtaking. The intimacy and depth of Walter Salles’ adaptation of Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s memoir in “Love” is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, and I found myself deeply moved by Fernanda Torres’ performance. The intergenerational dynamic between her character and that played by her own mother, Fernanda Montenegro, added an emotional depth that resonated profoundly.

Venice, Telluride

Documentarian Petra Costa from Brazil offers an enlightening investigation into the precarious condition of democracy, exposing the concerning connections between Christian evangelism and politics. By bringing us close to influential figures during a period of widespread social and political turmoil, she skillfully moves between the grand and the personal, the past and the present, to illuminate a global trend that is not just limited to her native land. — REPHRASED BY AI

April

Venice, Toronto

In her unique portrayal, Dea Kulumbegashvili focuses on a dedicated OB-GYN (remarkably played by Ia Sukhitashvili) who discreetly performs abortions for women in rural Georgia who are in dire straits. Similar to Cristian Mungiu’s film 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days, the narrative underscores the dangers associated with clandestine terminations and the stigma and financial burden that hinder access. However, amidst the somberness, there are moments of breathtaking serenity. — REPHRASED BY AI

Babygirl

Venice, Toronto 

In a daring twist on ’90s-style erotic thrillers, director Halina Reijn challenges conventional norms with Nicole Kidman (winner of Venice’s best actress prize) starring as a middle-aged businesswoman who experiences liberation through a flirtatious dance with a younger intern, played by Harris Dickinson. David Rooney describes the film as a provocative and indulgent rollercoaster ride that avoids judgment and traditional moral standards.

The Brutalist

Venice, Toronto

Brady Corbet’s third film, a moving novelistic exploration, centers around a Hungarian Jewish architect who escapes to America post-World War II. Clocking in at over three hours and presented beautifully in 70mm, the movie delves into profound topics such as creativity, immigration, the isolation of wealth, and the lingering impact of history. Adrien Brody delivers an exceptional performance in the lead role. — Rewritten by AI

Conclave

Telluride, Toronto

Based on Robert Harris’s book, Edward Berger’s drama provides a glimpse into the inner workings of power as religious leaders convene at the Vatican to select the next pope. Ralph Fiennes delivers an outstanding performance as the cardinal in charge of the election, who starts questioning his faith due to recent Church controversies. Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini are part of a highly skilled supporting cast in a suspenseful and relevant drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat. – REVISED BY AI

Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight

Telluride, Toronto

In her directorial first, actress Embeth Davidtz presents a compelling adaptation of Alexandra Fuller’s 2001 memoir, which offers a child’s perspective on the conflict that shaped Zimbabwe as a nation. Lexi Venter delivers an exceptional, realistic portrayal of the main character Bobo, drawing comparisons to Anna Paquin’s Oscar-winning role in The Piano. (Paraphrased by me)

Familiar Touch

Venice

Sarah Friedland’s first film presents growing older as a unique journey of self-discovery. It centers around an intriguing octogenarian character (Kathleen Chalfant), who faces challenges with dementia and adapts to life in a new assisted living home. The director skillfully captures the nuances of age, keeping viewers deeply connected to our protagonist’s viewpoint. With empathy and subtlety, she finds humor and compassion in the most delicate situations.

The Friend

Telluride, Toronto

Scott McGehee and David Siegel’s drama, which is both unsentimental and moving, revolves around the life of a writer portrayed brilliantly by Naomi Watts. This woman is grappling with not only the loss of her best friend (Bill Murray in flashbacks) but also a Great Dane that her friend left behind. The story offers a delicate yet profound examination of life, death, and friendship, set against the backdrop of a vividly depicted New York City. Adapted from Sigrid Nunez’s novel.

Hard Truths

Toronto

In the same vein as his previous works, “Happy-Go-Lucky” and “Another Year”, Mike Leigh’s latest dramatic production delves further into his lifelong exploration of the elusive nature of happiness. This time, through a compelling depiction of emotional turmoil, he examines who experiences it, who doesn’t, and the complexities surrounding its acquisition. Marianne Jean-Baptiste delivers an intense, at times humorous performance as a character grappling with the world’s challenges, while Michele Austin, portraying her sister, offers a comforting contrast of warmth and light. – Rewritten by AI.

I’m Still Here

Venice, Toronto

Unlike most films depicting life under Brazil’s military dictatorship, Walter Salles’ latest stands out for its intimate portrayal. Based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s memoir about his mother’s bravery following the disappearance of her husband, Fernanda Torres beautifully captures the matriarch’s strength, while Fernanda Montenegro movingly takes on the role in later years. – D.R. (Paraphrased)

Love

Venice

As a fervent admirer, I can’t help but share my thoughts on the captivating midpoint of Dag Johan Haugerud’s thematic trilogy, nestled between “Sex” and “Dreams.” This Norwegian-crafted dramedy is simply enchanting – raw, insightful, and brimming with bold dialogues. It offers a fresh perspective on contemporary dating norms in the era of apps, skillfully weaving the subtly mirrored journeys of two colleagues. The film presents intriguing insights into the complexities of friendship and romance that left me pondering long after the credits rolled. – Yours truly.

Nickel Boys

Telluride

RaMell Ross, director of “Hale County This Morning, This Evening,” steps into narrative filmmaking for the first time with a powerful adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s novel, focusing on two boys (Brandon Wilson and Ethan Herisse) who find themselves in a Florida reform school. Through vivid imagery captured by cinematographer Jomo Fray and an editing style by Nicholas Monsour that is sharp and rhythmic, the film skillfully weaves between past and present, highlighting the intricate details that etch memories deep within us. In its sensitive portrayal of Black characters, this drama expands the boundaries of screen representation. – Rewritten by L.G.

One to One: John & Yoko

Venice

In one of his most impressive works yet, director Kevin Macdonald explores an eventful year in the life of the former Beatle and artist. A mix of extraordinary archival footage along with clips from a 1972 benefit concert creates a documentary that’s both moving and inspiring. It captures a sense of being there, offering a new perspective on a generation’s cultural revolution and serving as a reminder of the optimistic future we once envisioned as kids. — REPHRASED BY AI

Queer

Venice, Toronto

Collaborating once more with screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes, Luca Guadagnino takes on William S. Burroughs’ semi-autobiographical novel set in postwar Mexico City under its own unique circumstances. This film is a psychedelic journey following a daring Daniel Craig as a writer captivated by a youthful Drew Starkey. Known for its ethereal cinematography by Sayombhu Mukdeeprom and a sorrowful soundtrack from Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, this film is both bold and enchanting. – R.D. (paraphrased version)

September 5

Venice, Telluride

Tim Fehlbaum’s captivating newsroom drama narrates the harrowing events where an ABC Sports team unwittingly broadcast the horrific terrorist attacks at the 1972 Munich Olympics live across the nation. The film addresses the challenging dilemmas the team encountered, and it is the powerful performances by Peter Sarsgaard, John Magaro, and Leonie Benesch that elevate it beyond a mere historical snapshot. By skillfully combining authentic archival footage with re-enactments, this movie resonates with our contemporary times and underscores the enduring significance of truthful journalism. — R.T.

Originally published in The Hollywood Reporter’s September 11th edition, you can now catch up on this tale by subscribing here.

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2024-09-13 16:55