2013

The story of a middle aged recluse stumbling upon a newly-orphaned youngster, as well as that man’s long-since discarded humanity, The Cleaner (originally released in Peru as El Limpiador) is a beautiful, touching, intelligent, and surprisingly moving film.

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A fictional drama whose particulars seem entirely plausible to those who have studied the history of German reunification following 1990, this one is a fascinating “what-if” that sheds some light on a post-WWII Europe most Americans don’t even know existed.

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During the 2013 Seattle International Film Festival, I’ve had an opportunity to see tons of indie films and have conversations with the talent involved in making them. Here is my video interview with ‘Jump’ director Kieron J. Walsh.

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One of the major hot-button topics within the social and political landscape of the United States at present, it’s more than a little surprising to find a relevant film confronting the issue of gun control from a Canadian point of view. And while Blackbird isn’t an examination of the wisdom or right to bear arms, it does concern itself with the primary fuel for that conversation: child violence.

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Although the set-up for Papadopoulos & Sons presents a seemingly predictable trajectory, what with the family bonding, etc., etc., the path it takes to get to the desired destination is hardly expected.

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The latest from M. Night. Shyamalan is light on twists … and pretty much everything else.

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This week, Alan Rapp subs for Trey to talk about After Earth with Trevan and Now You See Me with Eric.

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Besides being a stirring portrait of a youth culture in crisis, ‘Band of Outsiders’ is very charming and accessible — especially for anyone that’s experienced teen alienation.

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Currently playing at this year’s Seattle International Film Festival, and in full release today, What Maisie Knew should be commended for breaking the traditional mold of children in movies. Indeed, while it isn’t always pretty, the film at least has the courage to commit to its message: the emotional and spiritual protection of children.

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There are two ways that an exercise like Now You See Me could have failed miserably, and it admirably succeeds on both counts.

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For those who are familiar with Noah Baumbach’s work, Frances Ha will thoroughly satisfy. For those not yet familiar with Noah Baumbach, allow Frances Ha to make the introductions.

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In the new film Now You See Me, Interpol detective Alma Dray (Mélanie Laurent) tells her partner that sometimes logic won’t solve the puzzle. Sometimes it takes a leap of faith.

If you can head this advice, then you might really enjoy Now You See Me.

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The story of a young husband and wife’s struggles through the personal and professional speed bumps encountered in most marriages during the early just-had-a-kid years, ‘A Song Still Inside’ opens today at SIFF 2013.

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Cullen Hoback’s new documentary, Terms and Conditions May Apply, holds that the proliferation of information via the Internet is being used to bilk people and, worse, rob them of their freedoms.

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The practical effects and location shooting only further enhance and lend gravitas and a sense of authenticity to The Deep. Having played at this year’s Seattle International Film Festival, it’s in the running for the best film going at that event this year.

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