The Venice Film Festival, known for its prestigious lineup of cinematic offerings, presented a captivating array of films and television series this year. While some highly anticipated releases, such as Todd Phillips’s musical sequel to “Joker,” fell a bit flat, a group of lesser-known works emerged as true gems, garnering enthusiastic responses from both audiences and critics. Here are five films and TV shows that left a lasting impression and deserve a spot on your watchlist.
April
Dea Kulumbegashvili’s “April,” a gripping drama set in rural Georgia, tells the story of a doctor, played by the remarkable Ia Sukhitashvili, who faces investigation for a botched birth while also conducting illegal abortions. The film, while often challenging to watch, is a powerful exploration of moral dilemmas, societal pressures, and the resilience of the human spirit. “April” is a testament to Kulumbegashvili’s exceptional filmmaking, showcasing stunning visuals and raw emotion. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, provoking reflection and debate.
Babygirl
Halina Reijn’s “Babygirl” offers a deliciously subversive exploration of desire, power, and the complexities of human relationships. Nicole Kidman delivers a captivating performance as a powerful businesswoman who finds herself drawn to her charismatic, younger intern, played by Harris Dickinson. The film unfolds with a raw honesty, delving into the murky waters of power dynamics and the consequences of unchecked desires. “Babygirl” is a compelling watch that will leave you questioning the nature of attraction and the boundaries of acceptable behavior.
The Brutalist
Brady Corbet’s ambitious epic, “The Brutalist,” spanning decades, traces the life of a Jewish-Hungarian architect, portrayed by a brilliant Adrien Brody, who rebuilds his life in America after surviving the Holocaust. The film’s first half, depicting the architect’s arrival in the East Coast and his commission from a volatile patron, is a masterpiece of filmmaking. The opening sequence, with its captivating score and stunning visuals, evokes the grandeur and brilliance of “The Godfather: Part II.” While the second half of the film may falter slightly, “The Brutalist” remains a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience.
The Room Next Door
Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language film, “The Room Next Door,” begins with a somewhat literal script and melodramatic flashbacks. However, the film flourishes thanks to the heartfelt performances of Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore, who portray friends reunited after one receives a terminal cancer diagnosis. “The Room Next Door” explores themes of mortality, euthanasia, and the devastating impact of climate change, all presented within Almodóvar’s signature style of vibrant colors, captivating interiors, and artful cinematography. While not his most acclaimed work, the film showcases Almodóvar’s talent for crafting poignant tales of love, loss, and reconciliation.
Families Like Ours
This gripping seven-part dystopian TV series from Thomas Vinterberg, director of “Another Round,” imagines a future where rising sea levels have rendered Denmark uninhabitable. “Families Like Ours” depicts the ensuing chaos and despair, exploring the impact of climate change on individuals, families, and societies. The series is a timely and poignant call to action, urging viewers to confront the urgency of climate change and its devastating consequences. It’s a powerful reminder that the fate of our planet lies in our hands.
