Hit the Road’s loose structure can sometimes challenge its audience’s engagement - particularly when it loses steam in the second half - but writer director Panah Panahi knows where to direct our attention, and when he puts his central focus on the core family, the story sings. In the end, the commendable cast - and Panahi's witty, winsome writing - make it a mightily rewarding watch.

Read my full review on Next Best Picture!

2022 Ranked

Even if its style or structure isn't ever as subversive as its leading star, Charlotte is always subtly profound and poignant as it tells the tragic story of artist Charlotte Salomon with soulful sincerity.

Read my full review on Next Best Picture!

2022 Ranked

TIFF 2021 - Film #17

Though the animation could’ve certainly been a bit more stylized, I was still quite moved by the stirring story of Charlotte Salomon, one I had no prior knowledge of. The script is subtly profound and poignant (and oh so sad), while the voice cast compels as well. Could be a stealth Best Animated Feature contender.

Full thoughts coming soon to Next Best Picture!

2022 Ranked

TIFF 2021 - Film #11

Perhaps a tad too long, but Benediction is an effectively emotional look at the life of Siegfried Sassoon with a particularly powerful performance from Jack Lowden and strong ing work from Jeremy Irvine and Peter Capaldi. Davies’ dialogue is devilishly biting, as always.

2022 Ranked

TIFF 2021 - Film #2

Aside from its occasionally plodding pace, Mothering Sunday is a comionately crafted period drama led by the lively (and lovely) Odessa Young and Josh O’Connor that earns our attention due to the irresistible allure of its sensual atmosphere. Modest, but moving. Could see my score increase the longer it lingers.

2022 Ranked

Charli XCX carries Alone Together with her creativity and charm, sharing her story of persevering through the pandemic by producing her new album and cultivating connections with her fervent fans to ward off the loneliness of lockdown.

2022 Ranked

Megan Park’s The Fallout tackles troubling and timely subject matter with harrowing honesty, and star Jenna Ortega expertly anchors the entire affair in her irably authentic performance.

It might be the best of the fest.

Read more at Loud and Clear Reviews!

2022 Ranked

Here Before sometimes struggles to find its footing as it combines seemingly supernatural thrills with real-world tragedies, but an astounding Andrea Riseborough keeps this psychological drama afloat in the end.

2022 Ranked

Potato Dreams of America efficiently offsets its eccentricity with earnest emotion, sharing a coming-of-age story that is simultaneously silly and stirring.

Read more at Loud and Clear Reviews!

2022 Ranked