top of page

Sundance Recap #2

It's time for another quick Sundance recap! I'm a bit slower at racking up films this year than usual, but will ramp up the movie-watching through Sunday to fit in as many as I can before the festival ends.


ATROPIA

Alia Shawkat plays an aspiring actress named Fayruz who lives and works inside a war simulation training camp lovingly called Atropia during the early oughts. Every day, she attempts to give her finest performances, though no talent scouts are ever there to see. She does it simply for the love of the craft. One day, when a former Iraqi soldier joins the cast and crew, Fayruz feels an instant connection that she should probably at least attempt to keep in check...but she just can't help herself.


Atropia is a straightforward and light satire comedy, opting not to wade into deeper commentary. It's more interested in drawing out the humor of these scenarios and pointing out their absurdities than having anything to say about them, and its pretty aimless in doing so. Still, I had fun with the film, even when not all of the jokes or gags landed (though it must be said, the secret cameo near the beginning definitely had me chuckling). What works is largely due to Alia Shawkat's dedication, and I gotta give her props for that. RATING: 6.5/10




THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND

Two former bandmates (and lovers) reunite to play a private gig at the home of a wealthy lottery winner superfan (Tim Key) in The Ballad of Wallis Island. Herb McGwyer (Tom Basden) and Nell Mortimer (Carey Mulligan) split up professionally and romantically almost a decade ago and haven't spoken to each other since they parted ways. Herb moved on to a solo career, while Nell gave up music to focus on a new partner. Forced under the same roof, they do their best to attempt to recapture the magic they once created effortlessly for the sake of their concert, all while under the watchful and prying eye of their goofy number one fan.


The Ballad of Wallis Island is the type of movie I come to Sundance for; the warm, delightful kind of film that I can recommend to anyone and everyone. I've already seen a dozen John Carney comparisons (a compliment of the highest order), and they're absolutely earned as Ballad is a music-focused charmer that leaves you with a smile on your face long after it's finished. Oh, and it features a lovely soundtrack too. The cast is fairly small, but everyone is terrific here, with Tim Key and Tom Basdan's butting-head banter being one of the essential ingredients to the film's success.

RATING: 8.5/10


That's it for now, but check back soon for more recaps!

Commentaires


Follow Me
  • Twitter
  • Letterboxd
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
member.square.png
Featured Review
Tag Cloud
What I'm Watching
nobody wants this.jpg
Favorite Movie of 2024
GNhgsDvWoAAM1l4_edited.jpg

© 2024 Movies & Mayhem

  • Twitter
  • Letterboxd
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
bottom of page