September 17, 2021

WIFF’s Weekend Watch List — 09/17

WORTH (If you want a quality drama) Vincent Georgie: Michael Keaton stars in this timely drama, as we mark the 20th Anniversary of the…

WORTH

(If you want a quality drama)

Vincent Georgie: Michael Keaton stars in this timely drama, as we mark the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. What makes this film work so well is that it forces you to wrap your head around how you assign a monetary value to lives lost and subsequent suffering. Stanley Tucci and Amy Ryan are fantastic, in supporting roles.

Synopsis: In Washington, D.C., lawyer Kenneth Feinberg battles cynicism, bureaucracy and politics to help the victims of 9/11.

Watch on Netflix

HARD CANDY

(If you want something provocative)

Vincent Georgie: This film treads dicey dramatic territory, telling a tale of the revolving roles of predator and victim. Both Elliot Page and Patrick Wilson are expertly cast. These are courageous and audacious performances, in a film that walks a tight rope and succeeds admirably. This film has a distinctive point of view, and its direction and script fulfill the vision decisively.

Synopsis: Hayley is a precocious teenager who goes to a coffee shop to meet Jeff, the photographer she met on the internet. Jeff thinks he is in for a real treat, but Hayley plays a trick on him. After drugging Jeff and tying him down, Hayley reveals that she knows Jeff preys on teenage girls, and she has a plan to wring a confession from him.

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THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON

(If you want something to tug at the heart strings)

Vincent Georgie:My expectations of a film starring Shia Labeouf are not usually high, but this is a sincere and winning new American independent film. Newcomer Zack Gottsagen is a revelation, and it’s always good to see John Hawkes on-screen. Roll the dice on this one; you will be pleasantly surprised.

Synopsis: A man with down syndrome runs away from a residential nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a wrestler. Later, he meets with an outlaw who becomes his friend and coach.

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DOUBLE FEATURE

FROM THE MIND OF STEPHEN KING

A commercial failure initially upon its release in 1994, this Morgan Freeman – Tim Robbins classic emerged as one of the most beloved films of all time. Also based on a short story by Stephen King, the second film has the same emotional sincerity and mystical qualities. An excellent cast, led by Tom Hanks, make this one a favourite.

THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION

Andy Dufresne, a successful banker, is arrested for the murders of his wife and her lover, and is sentenced to life imprisonment at the Shawshank prison. He becomes the most unconventional prisoner.

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THE GREEN MILE

Paul, the head guard of a prison, meets an inmate, John, an African American who is accused of murdering two girls. His life changes drastically when he discovers that John has a special gift.