It's that time again! The Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) Guide is out so it's time for Jim and me to check out the movies and buy some tickets. Here's my schedule for the next few weeks.
Week 1:
May 23 The Adventures of Robin Hood
In his most iconic screen performance, Errol Flynn, as Robin Hood, leads his band of Merry Men against the vile usurper to England’s throne Prince John, while simultaneously wooing the lovely Maid Marian and engaging in some impressive feats of archery and swordplay.
May 23 Paper Heart
Despite professing a belief that she's incapable of love, comedian and actress Charlyne Yi finds herself falling for Michael Cera in this utterly charming and intoxicating mix of documentary, improvisation, and romance.
May 24 I'm No Dummy
Informative, engaging, and funny, this insightful documentary explores the world of ventriloquism. Dissecting the history of “venting” through archival footage, photos, and interviews with legendary performers, the film allows a rare glimpse into the complex creative process that sustains this seemingly magical art.
May 26 Answer Man
Twenty years ago Arlen Faber wrote a best-selling spirituality guide, Me and God. Now a cantankerous recluse, his perfect, lonely life changes when he meets his new chiropractor Elizabeth and a recovering alcoholic named Kris—both of whom seek the answers that neither he nor God knows.
Week 2:
June 6 Baby Formula
A lesbian couple uses an experimental process to impregnate themselves with “female sperm” created from each others’ stem cells, but not everybody in their families is keen on the idea. Shot in a mockumentary style, this mildly funny, improvisational film celebrates love, acceptance and life in all its forms.
June 7 Finding Bliss
Jody needs a place to shoot her movies but all she can find is a porn studio. She starts to secretly film there but is discovered and forced to collaborate with an adult film director. Filmed in Spokane, this fun romantic comedy borrows plot lines from director Julie Davis’ own start in the industry.
June 8 (500) Days of Summer
Boy meets girl. Boy falls in love. Girl doesn’t. Unusual in its outcome, (500) Days of Summer is a charming postmodern reflection on crushing unrequited love. The comedic tone, vigorous shots, nuanced performances, and effervescent music keep (500) Days light in the most satisfying way.
Week 3:
June 11 Home
Marthe and Michel live with their kids on the edge of a near-completed freeway. When the road is suddenly opened up to traffic, the noise and pollution threatens to destroy the family unit. Ursula Meier's absurd comedy—a “road movie in reverse”—redefines what “home” means.
June 12 Wonderful World
Joshua Goldin’s directorial debut stars Matthew Broderick as Ben Singer, a pot-smoking proofreader, failed children’s singer, lackluster weekend dad, and card-carrying pessimist. But when Ben’s roommate’s sister comes to visit, his usual misanthropy starts to give way as he realizes that inspiration can be found in the most unlikely places.
June 12 Swimsuit Issue
In the wake of a wild bachelor party, Fredrik discovers his passion for synchronized swimming. Convincing his floorball teammates to join him as Sweden’s only all-male team, they set their sights on the world championships in this oddball, comedic tale of courage, triumph and gender role reversal.
June 13 Every Little Step
“Dancing with the Stars” may be all the rage, but what of those who dance their little hearts out in obscurity? This documentary shines a light on that world as 3000 dancers audition for a Broadway revival of “A Chorus Line.”
June 14 Hachiko: A Dog's Story
The cherished, true story of a legendary Japanese akita comes to America in this modern reinvention by Lasse Hallström. Hachiko demonstrates the profound bond between man and canine with his unrelenting loyalty in this story of love, unwavering devotion, and the resounding impact one dog’s affection can make.