This is supposed to be a film — trigger warning included — about sexism, feminism, the dangers of social media and mob mentality. But instead of being a social commentary, it’s a self-indulgent mess with no conscience whatsoever. Director-writer Sam Levinson, son of the famous director Barry and director of 2011 film Another Happy Day,…

This hide-and-seek thriller is a twisted little indie film, and I’m so proud knowing it was a local crew and cast involved. Part of FIN’s Cinema 902 program, Creepy Crawling is about a teenager — friendless and aimless — who moves with his father and has trouble fitting in at his new school. After being…

This biting satire offers a unique look on the alien invaders genre, it’s a bit too silly at times. A woman bearing a child and her husband stay at a remote cabin while she deals with the tumultuous pregnancy, but they soon realize they are not alone. Aliens With Knives is sporadically hilarious, and skewers…

The Guilty is a suspense thriller that doesn’t let go and won’t slow down. The Danish film chronicles one work night for a call operator on suspension from field duty due to a work-related transgression. Asger Holm is a dryly funny, sarcastic, disinterested dispatcher who cares little about his temporary job or the people calling…

G. Patrick Condon’s debut feature may just be the most meta, ironic and interesting film I’ve seen in the fest so far. It delves deep into the mind of Condon — who plays himself as a director who blew all the money to finance his movie — and now has to find a way to…

Scott Jones’ story is both horrifying and triumphant. It’s the kind of tale you cringe at hearing, but Jones’ tenacity in the face of everything he’s struggled with has made for an inspiring documentary work. The trust Jones is able to give real-life friend Laura Marie Wayne, who documents things start to finish, allows for…

Andrea Dorfman’s film about the quest for children’s rights and changes to sexual violence investigations in Meru, Africa is a difficult watch, but worth the investment. Dorfman spent five years following the struggle of children, families and advocates for them in an area where money talks and law is wild. With a police force that…

The Wild Pear Tree is a meditation on familial bonds, the power of writing as an art form, and the fruitless wandering of confused, bewildered youth. Cannes darling Nuri Bilge Ceylan returns with this sprawling, magnificent work, This film is, at times, both mesmerizing and frustrating. It has been chosen as Turkey’s official submission for…

This gritty, disquieting tale of a meek dog groomer willing to do anything for a better life is the best film of the festival so far. The Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or nominee is bursting with a mix of life and weary desperation in every frame, and is a steady vehicle for lead Marcello Fonte.…

This beautiful portrait of a lauded songwriter and his personal struggles is portrayed in a magnificent, touching manner through his daughter’s quest for understanding. Gene MacLellan was an international gem, and his songs Snowbird and Put Your Hand In My Hand propelled him into a successful music career. But this National Film Board documentary shows…