Run Rabbit Run, A Little Prayer, Theater Camp, Aliens Abducted My Parents and Now I Feel Kinda Left Out… Discover Kristin Ciliberto’s mini reviews from Sundance 2023.
Run Rabbit Run
Director: Daina Reid
A boring, dull, and unentertaining psychological thriller that is anticlimactic. Sarah Snook’s performance is a missed opportunity to let her craft shine as an actress for a film that explored motherhood. Reid’s film is underwhelming with tropes audiences have seen before and suffers what it wants audiences to take away.
Fremont
Director: Babak Jalali
Fremont appeared as a bland film, but once audiences see it for what it is, it becomes emotionally challenging. Jalali gives audiences a look at perspectives that are rarely exposed. There was some charm to the film where actress Anaita Wali Zada gave a great film debut, however, it felt underwhelming of what it wanted to get across in the end. Also, there was not enough of Jeremy Allen White as the highlight of this film was to closely watch the two characters connect.
Divinity
Director: Eddie Alcazar
Some audiences will be scratching their heads questioning what they might have witnessed. I definitely was as my mind couldn’t wrap around what Alcazar’s film was all about. Divinity is a strangely wild sci-fi film to come from the festival. Alcazar’s film dares to be challenging as it screams to express something different, interesting, and edgy. All the visuals and sound design have a creative ambition, however, when it comes to the performances, dialogue, and premise, it’s a ridiculously and silly film.
Onyx the Fortuitous and the Talismans of Souls
Director: Andrew Bowser
This film was directed, written, and stars Andrew Bowser who turned his internet character to have his own journey and his own feature film that’s an obnoxious extended and unfunny YouTube bit. The best way to think of this film is that it is a Saturday Night Live skit that went on way too long. Zero charm and wit that includes humorless dialogue that is absolutely cringey to endure. Bowser’s film does not take risks of it being a dry and boring film. Some credit does need to be acknowledged for the practical effects which were slightly creative.
When It Melts
Director: Veerle Baetens
Actress turned director Veerle Baetens makes her feature film debut. A story that is a harsh drama about a young woman who experiences and suffers from ultimate loneliness and sexual violence and trauma. A story told mostly through flashbacks during a summer from her childhood that starts as a fun, nostalgic, and carefree time but slowly escalates into a nightmare. The film leads to an unsatisfying ending that comes from great performances from her young actors.
A Little Prayer
Director: Angus MacLachlan
The best ensemble piece to come from the festival this year! A strong and phenomenal ensemble cast in a film that is honest and touching. MacLachlan’s film shows the portrait of a North Carolina family facing the serious and topical subjects of PSTD and abortion. David Strathairn and Jane Levy give career-defining performances that cannot be missed. MacLachlan has proven once again over his long career that he has the ability to share unforgettable and witty dramas with touches of comedy, but full of realism.
Theater Camp
Directors: Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman
A film made for the musical, drama, and theater geeks! Theater Camp is not exactly for all audiences, but Gordon and Lieberman were able to create a film that shines bright. Performances are all delightful as excellent comedic actors star in amazing roles. Jimmy Tarto is a scene-stealer landing all the laughs and whose character is a social media-like influencer but he’s not the smartest in the bunch of the ensemble cast. It’s a fluff piece that meets a modern-day Wet Hot American Summer that is sure to be a cult classic.
Aliens Abducted My Parents and Now I Feel Kinda Left Out
Director: Jake Van Wagoner
The most charming and heartfelt comedy to come from Sundance is Jake Van Wagoner’s family-friendly film that will make audiences feel good after watching it. A heart-warming, funny, sweet, and harmless tale that is predictable, but it is the journey of the cast of characters and story as to why this film is a reason to watch and get hooked. Influenced by 80’s family cinema and Steven Spielberg it is definitely an enjoyable film that’s a story of friendship and family. It will capture the hearts of all ages as Emma Tremblay and Jacob Buster share adorable chemistry together.
Cat Person
Director: Susan Fogel
Fogel’s film is provocative that pushes some boundaries and suspense but also produces some laughs along the way. The film is nowhere as brilliant as Emerald Fennell’s Promising Young Woman. A reason to watch this film is the awkward yet perfect chemistry between the fabulous Nicholas Braun and Emilia Jones. It’s never a dull adventure that looks at the current modern dating world. However, plot holes and main points are completely glossed over and minor obnoxiousness and annoying supporting characters fail to keep it truly succeeding.
The Starling Girl
Director: Laurel Parmet
A dramatic tale that tells a coming-of-age film starring Eliza Scanlen in a remarkable and very mature performance. It’s definitely a film that is uncomfortable and explores the Christian religion and the impact it has on women and how women are supposed to be and act. Parmet captures a complex and authentic story of a young woman and the dangers of fundamentalism and the power of abuse. Lewis Pullman also pulls off an incredible performance and sparks chemistry with Scanlen. Parmet’s film will sit and stay with audiences after watching.
