Three films have recently debuted, each tackling complex themes ranging from adolescence to love and social issues. These movies offer different narratives and styles, providing audiences with a variety of cinematic experiences.
The Plague: A Coming-of-Age Drama
Released as part of its director’s debut, The Plague, directed by Charlie Polinger, is a coming-of-age drama set against the backdrop of a water polo camp in 2003. The film, which has a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes, follows the journey of Ben (played by Everett Blunck), a middle-schooler navigating the challenges of adolescence.
Ben befriends Eli (portrayed by Kenny Rasmussen), a misfit who faces ridicule from their peers due to a severe skin condition. As Ben’s association with Eli leads to his own ostracization, tensions rise, forcing him to confront the complexities of friendship and social dynamics.
Critics have praised the film for its strong performances, especially from Blunck, who delivers a compelling portrayal of a young boy grappling with peer pressure. The cinematography by Steven Breckon adds depth to the film’s visual narrative, enhancing its emotional weight. Despite the notable absence of adult figures in pivotal moments, The Plague effectively captures the tumultuous nature of youth, earning it a grade of B+.
We Bury the Dead: A Zombie Love Story
In a different vein, We Bury the Dead, directed by Zak Hilditch, offers a blend of horror and drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. The film stars Daisy Ridley as Ava Newman, a woman on a mission to retrieve bodies after a catastrophic event in Tasmania.
Set in a post-apocalyptic landscape, the plot revolves around Ava’s search for her husband amidst a backdrop of reanimated corpses. Ridley’s performance stands out, reminiscent of classic heroines, yet her character’s lack of fear in the face of danger raises questions about the film’s effectiveness as a horror narrative.
While the film attempts to explore themes of love and loss, it struggles to create a cohesive story that resonates with audiences. Critics have noted that the horror elements do not deliver the expected thrills, resulting in a grade of C+.
The Dutchman: A Modern Adaptation
Lastly, The Dutchman, directed by Andre Gaines, adapts the 1964 play by Amiri Baraka. This film, with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes, delves into themes of race, gender, and social class through the interactions of its characters.
The narrative follows Clay (played by Andre Holland), who encounters Lula (portrayed by Kate Mara) on a subway, leading to a complex and manipulative relationship. Critics have pointed out that while the film contains profound social commentary, it often feels more suited for the stage than the screen, with characters that lack depth.
Despite a talented cast, including Zazie Beetz and Stephen McKinley Henderson, the execution falters, resulting in a grade of C-. The film’s philosophical discussions, while thought-provoking, may not engage viewers as intended.
These three films showcase the diverse landscape of contemporary cinema, each offering unique insights into the human experience through different genres. As audiences continue to seek meaningful narratives, these works contribute to the ongoing dialogue about youth, love, and societal challenges.
