Author: Laurie Coker

In his heartfelt indie film Adjunct, writer-director Ron Najor plays the dual roles of leading actor and filmmaker. The film tells the story of a struggling academic who discovers the precariousness of his place in the academic world. Unassuming yet thought-provoking, Adjunct is a profoundly personal exploration of purpose and resilience in a system that… Continue reading Austin Film Festival 2024: Adjunct – a heartfelt indie film

Director Michael Vlamis’ ‘Crossword’ is an elegantly crafted thriller that dives into the haunting complexities of grief, obsession, and the painful fragmentation of a family dealing with the worst imaginable tragedy. The story follows Tessa (Aurora Perrineau) and James (Michael Vlamis), a couple torn apart by the accidental drowning of their young daughter. Each character… Continue reading Austin Film Festival: Crossword – a haunting thriller about unthinkable loss

Sam O’Mahony’s The Wise Guy is a heartfelt, whimsical story of resilience, told through the eyes of Francis, an eleven-year-old whose life is turned upside down by his parents’ separation. Through a series of delicate, touching moments and vibrant characters, O’Mahony brings a narrative that is as much about finding one’s way in a fractured… Continue reading Austin Film Festival 2024: The Wise Guy – a beautiful story of resilience

The Piano Lesson, the opening night film of the Austin Film Festival, is a profoundly moving directorial debut for Malcolm Washington, son of Denzel Washington, who co-produces alongside him. Starring John David Washington, Danielle Deadwyler, and the inimitable Samuel L. Jackson, this adaptation of August Wilson’s 1987 play brings the haunting drama of a family… Continue reading Austin Film Festival 2024: The Piano Lesson – a memorable opening night film

Sean Baker’s Anora left a lasting impact at the 2024 Fantastic Fest, quickly becoming a favorite among festival attendees, including myself. This 138-minute whirlwind of comedy, drama, and tension highlights Baker’s talent for bringing vibrant characters from society’s fringes into the spotlight. Anora demonstrates his ability to combine entertainment with emotional depth and social critique,… Continue reading Fantastic Fest 2024: Anora – what a RIDE!

Planet B, the second feature film from French director Aude Léa Rapin, made its mark at Fantastic Fest 2024 but left audiences with mixed feelings. A dystopian sci-fi thriller, the film explores timely themes of state control, virtual prisons, and resistance. While it boasts a compelling premise, strong performances, and striking visuals, “Planet B” ultimately… Continue reading Fantestic Fest 2024: Planet B

Will & Harper (2024), now streaming on Netflix, is an intimate and heartfelt documentary directed by Josh Greenbaum. It chronicles a deeply personal road trip between comedian Will Ferrell and his longtime friend, Harper Steele, who recently came out as a trans woman. The film captures their transformative journey of self-discovery, friendship, and acceptance as… Continue reading Fantastic Fest 2024: Will and Harper

MadS is a unique, frenetic, pulse-pounding French horror-thriller that takes viewers on a wild ride through the streets of Paris throughout one chaotic, unforgettable night. Directed by David Moreau, this 88-minute film stands out with its bold one-take format, immersing the audience in a continuous, uninterrupted stream of escalating tension. This cinematic approach, often seen… Continue reading Fantastic Fest 2024: MadS