Nakom

There’s an air of authenticity as well as a pleasingly laid-back yet substantive narrative engagement to this polished effort.

The debut feature of co-directors Kelly Daniela Norris and T.W. Pittman may tell a classic “How’ll you keep’em down on the farm after they’ve seen the lights of the big city?” tale. But the details they include and the surprising places they take it make it a novel and richly-rewarding film experience.

Kelly Daniela Norris and T.W. Pittman's film immediately announces itself as a modest triumph of world-building.

Though the script's handling of the decision itself is uncomfortably abrupt, everything leading up to it benefits from a convincing, lived-in vibe.

Nakom is sometimes slow-moving and occasionally succumbs to heavy-handed symbolism, contrasting images.... But the movie is commendable for centering on an atypical hero.

A strong nonprofessional cast and a use of long takes enhance the sense of immersion in a truly organic production.

The film builds to its conclusion without building its main character.