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Gorgeously shot by Santiago Gonzalez in sunshiny locations (in Dominican Republic), and skilfully edited by Jon Otazua, the film sharply captures the inner lives of the characters. The sparky ensemble cast is excellent, offering loose-limbed performances that are engaging and full of attitude. At the centre, de la Puente beautifully anchors the film as the thoughtful Gustavo seeks his place in the world. Arjona is radiant as Maria, a young woman who has clearly had a rough life. And Medina bristles with charisma as the scene-stealing Paco.

This is a fascinating depiction of a specific moment in history, both for Cuba and the whole world as it grappled with the Aids pandemic. Even more involving is the story of a group of young people who took such drastic efforts to survive, determined to express themselves or die trying. So while the story is bittersweet, it's also warmly inspiring.

themes, language, violence, sexuality

26.Dec.24

As always, Calamy gets the balance just right as a woman who remains thoroughly likeable even as she's slightly out of control, flailing in a situation that shouldn't be this messy. It's unsurprising that no man comes close to her hunky husband, so waking him up becomes her primary challenge. This creates nuanced ripples of chemistry between her and Elbaz. Meanwhile, the people around Iris, including her daughters (Richard and Crepieux), add some texture in the margins.

While Iris' journey of self-discovery feels rather familiar, it plays out in ways that are infused with mischievous charm. Writer-director Vignal's flourishes help elevate the film into a frothy concoction that is clearly never meant to be taken seriously. But this also feels like a missed opportunity, as the humour would have had more bite if it was connected to more deeply resonant characters and situations. As is, it's merely enjoyable fluff.

themes, language, sexuality

6.Jan.25

Santosh is a remarkably nuanced character, emerging through both Goswami's wonderfully understated performance and the clever camerawork and editing. This is a clear-thinking young woman who adapts quickly to unexpected situations, and she's fully aware when other officers cross the line. Alongside her, Rajwar is terrific as her rather blunt, matter-of-fact mentor. They make a great team when they're standing up against their entitled male colleagues. And they're even more interesting when they disagree with each other.

This is a striking look at cowboy-style policing in a rural area where men can be openly sexist and bigoted, and cops can blithely ignore the rights of their suspects. Scenes of police brutality are sensitively shot but seriously harrowing. So what emerges is a thoughtful film that provocatively takes on accepted injustices, including both large and small ones. And what it has to say about the truth is powerfully haunting.

themes, language, violence

7.Jan.25