The Brand New Testament
Belgian Jaco Van Dormael undoubtedly has an interesting way of looking at things. His long career (including Mr. Nobody) has made that clear and his latest film is a tour de force of oddity about a girl that escapes her father. It just so happens this girl is the daughter of God (aka, Jesus's sister) and the effect she has on modern society is pretty amazing. Here is Martin's review.
Gleason
This documentary about ALS affecting a new father (and former NFL player) was one of the breakout hits from Sundance. It's also one of the most emotional docs we've ever seen. It's directed by Clay Tweel (Finders Keepers, Print the Legend). Here's our Sundance review.
Evolution
Enter the Void writer Lucile Hadžihalilovic's third feature is this super weird and atmospheric Fantastic Fest fave. It's creepy and dreamy and if you're into that sort of thing, sure to be a hit. Check out Shelagh's review from TIFF.
The Greasy Strangler
It's quite possibly impossible to get any weirder than this Sundance midnighter about a father and son who run a disco walking tour and really like grease. If it was possible to get weirder, director Jim Hosking would have just done that. It's hilarious and gross and well worth a good greasy watch. See our review from Sundance for more.
Author: The JT LeRoy Story
If you know nothing of JT LeRoy then perfect! You must go see this movie by Jeff Feuerzeig of The Devil and Daniel Johnston fame. If you already know about JT LeRoy then perfect! This docu is so packed with interesting characters that you won't believe it is true.
Mountains May Depart
Jia Zhangke's follow-up to A Touch of Sin is this Cannes-premiering triptych about China's move to modernity. It's not without its flaws but is worth watching for its ambition and the remarkable performance by Zhao Tao. Here's our review.
Full Court: The Spencer Haywood Story
This impressive docu by Martin Spirit is the story of Seattle SuperSonic Spencer Haywood who defied the NBA's eligibility rules and received backlash aplenty. It should be a big hit at SIFF, even if the SuperSonics are long gone from Seattle.
Demon
Sadly, Demon director Marcin Wrona died not long after the world premiere of this film at TIFF last year. This Polish ghost story, Wrona's second feature, showed his incredible talent. Check out Shelagh's review for more.
Under the Shadow
Babak Anvari's Sundance-premiering debut feature is set in 1980s Tehran while everyone is fleeing the city. If that wasn't scary enough, there is a mysterious force at work in a very creepy apartment building. Beware, this film is flat out scary.
The Pistol Shrimps
This Tribeca-premiering docu by Brent Hodge is the story of an all-women's rec league basketball team in LA. The film is hilarious, mostly because the eponymous team is filled with funny writers and actors such as Aubrey Plaza and Angela Trimbur.
Bonus Pick: Folk Hero & Funny Guy
I couldn't rightfully pick a film I produced to be in our Top10 picks, so here is number 11! In his Tribeca review, Chris Bourne said: "while the notes may feel familiar, the overall composition boasts a bracing freshness and exuberant execution." It happens to be playing at SIFF, just in case you're interested.
