Bobby LePire

If any viewer can get through those initial 25 minutes, the rest of the 93-minute runtime offers up a fun, twisted time with solid effects and good acting.

Monument is an engaging and dramatic look at an unknown true story. The cast is wonderful, led by an outstanding Mazzello, whose turn here shows why he’s been steadily working since he was a child. His co-stars are equally splendid.

Overall, this is a strong feature debut for Alexander and Ford, but perhaps next time they can let a third set of eyes glance at the script.

The cast is great, especially Vegha and Sligh, who craft realistic, believable characters. The editing is precise, though it interrupts the plot if the audience isn’t properly prepared for it on first viewing. Overall, the director proves he has what it takes to scare cinephiles, and he got a cast just as creepy as his plot.

The Mother And The Bear is a very different spin on the romantic comedy and self-actualization tale. By combining the two, Johnny Ma creates a distinct and engaging story. It is led by the brilliant Kim Ho-Jung, who is aided by a wonderful supporting cast. The music also does a lot of heavy-lifting, emotionally speaking, and everything just comes together in a truly sweet and life-affirming way.

Adult Children is funny and dramatic in equal measure.

Esta Isla (This Island). is an excellent and absorbing drama. Its characters are well-written and behave in sensible and relatable ways. The cast excels at bringing authentic emotions and subtle details to the forefront, making everything as authentic as possible.

Tatsumi is a stellar work of genius on every level.

Brute 1976 is no X, but it is a solid if clichéd slasher. The cast is meh, with two exceptions, but the sheer amount of death and bloodshed provides a cathartic release. Then the ending happens, and the movie proves to have a shocking amount of staying power.

Forastera is methodical and observant, which are two of its greatest strengths. Iglesias is unhurried, allowing every scene to sit in the peaceful quiet before the storm of death shakes everything apart.