The trek to Park City, Utah was worth it this year for plenty of filmmakers exhibiting at the Sundance Film Festival. Nearly 40 films were picked up for distribution — more than double last year’s total. Street takes a look at some of the selections coming soon to a theater near you, because you wouldn’t want to be the last to catch the next Little Miss Sunshine or The Kids are Alright.
Kaboom Directed by: Gregg Araki Acquired by: IFC
The latest from veteran director Araki, who rose to fame as part of the New Queer Cinema movement, focuses on a bed–hopping college student who senses doom in the future. This seems relatable enough for the average student contemplating the job market — except that the worries here stem from supernatural hijinks that may point to the end of the world. Fact: it still sounds less scary than a musing on career options.
The Future Directed by: Miranda July Acquired by: Roadside Attractions
After winning the Camera d’Or at Cannes and Sundance’s special jury prize for Me and You and Everyone We Know, director Miranda July took a six-year hiatus from the festival scene. Her return to Sundance this year brought this film, a unique take on a couple contemplating their future. For those familiar with performance artist July’s work, this may sound like bland fare, bu the fact that it’s narrated by a cat named Paw–Paw should be your first clue that this is not the case.
Like Crazy Directed by: Drake Doremus Acquired by: Paramount
This year’s Grand Jury–prize winner may strike a chord with love–sick students returning this semester from abroad. Jacob and Anna are perfect for each other, as they discover while attending college together in Los Angeles. The only thing that can (and does) come between them is the Atlantic Ocean when Anna returns home. Female lead Felicity Jones won the Special Jury Prize for her performance in Doremus’ debut film.
Martha Marcy May Marlene Directed by: Sean Durkin Acquired by: Fox Searchlight
The mythical third Olsen sister makes her debut in a decidedly non–It Takes Two fashion. Elizabeth Olsen stars as the title character, an emotionally bruised young woman who has taken up residence with her sister after escaping a mysterious commune/cult. Disturbing details of her past are gradually revealed as she tries to come to terms with her past.
Homework Directed by: Gavin Wiesen Acquired by: Fox Searchlight
Sundance just wouldn’t be Sundance without its quota of quirky indie comedies that will be desperately marketed toward Wes Anderson fans. Here to help keep the numbers up is Homework, starring Emma Roberts (who was in last year’s mental illness–themed quirky comedy, It’s Kind of a Funny Story). An adorably quirky boy meets his dream girl and seeks to woo her in this typical indie fare.
Take Shelter Directed by: Jeff Nichols Acquired by: Sony Pictures Classics
My Idiot Brother Directed by: Jesse Peretz Acquired by: The Weinstein Company
Paul Rudd sports a Zach Galifanakis-beard in this crowd–pleasing comedy that will most definitely make it to a theater near you. As a loser with a heart of gold, Rudd turns to his family, drifting from sister to sister trying to get back on his feet. His sisters are played by Elizabeth Banks, Zooey Deschanel, and Emily Mortimer, by the way.
