United States
Brutal is an unentertaining slog to get through from start to finish, and it should have been abandoned on the very first day of shooting.
Cameraperson interweaves many distinct stories brought to the screen by Kirsten Johnson; it is an unwavering work and truly worth your time.
Manchester by the Sea is a subtle, nuanced story of loss and grief, brought to life through restrained direction and powerful performances.
On New Year’s Eve, six friends get together and reflect on their lives, and the bigger issues in the world. Auld Lang Syne is a nice addition to the small collection of films written, directed, and shot by women.
Closet Monster is a movie that fluently balances drama and humor, but the very essence within its message is one of defiant and radical hope.
Other People, a semi-autobiographical film based on writer Chris Kelly’s experiences, works in a beautiful way due to the subtext behind it.
Office Christmas Party is a glaringly unfunny R-rated comedy, which isn’t even saved by the talented crew in front of and behind the camera.
Nocturnal Animals is Tom Ford’s latest film, presented in lavish and bright neon colors; though it also possesses a hopelessly dark view.
Counter Clockwise is a low budget sci-fi film, with horror and thriller inflections, in which a scientist stumbles upon the creation of a time machine.
All We Had tells the story of a homeless woman and her daughter and their struggles of having to refind a place in the world for themselves.
Jack Reacher: Never Go Back is a sequel that falls flat and misses the opportunity to create something worthwhile.
Sugar Mountain is a dark thriller about life in small-town America; with fine character acting and tension building, it’s a unique hit.
Frank & Lola is an original look at a romantic relationship affected by past sexual abuse, and is presented in a mezmorizing noir tone.
Anonymous is a film based on computer hacking, yet, with a less than subtle focus, it feels much like a tamer version of the show Mr. Robot.
Strangers on a Train is one of Hitchc*ck’s famous works – using only camera techniques and visuals, it successfully conveys a chilling story, and achieves its horror with less than blood and creepy props.