Another year, another Sundance and, as always, it’s crazy to think that as we’re nearing the final stages of this past years awards run, we’re technically kicking into gear with the next. Last year films such as Call Me By Your Name and Mudbound made their debut at the festival and we’re buzzing with anticipation with what the break out films of the 2018 fest will be. Our writers Yasmin and Katey are on the job and have laid out the films they’re most excited to check out.
Lizzie
Why We’re Excited: Based on the true story of the woman who ax-murdered her family, Lizzie doesn’t seem to be a traditional origin story. With Chloe Sevigny as the titular character and Kristen Stewart as her live-in maid, this film seems like it may go down the same as My Friend Dahmer. It may try to humanize her or view her through others eyes, something that we have never seen in a Lizzie Borden adaptation. Also, it looks hella queer.
Colette
Why We’re Excited: There’s nothing that I love more than women taking down the patriarchy and period dramas. Colette seems to be a mixture of both, with Keira Knightley playing the title character. Colette is based on a true story about the famous French writer, whose groundbreaking prose helped lift challenge the social restraints on women. When her husband takes credit for her writing, Colette has to break free from her (much older) hubby and find her own place in the male-dominated field. With a luminous setting, Colette is sure to impress.
The Tale
Why We’re Excited: The description of The Tale is enough to bring chills up your spine:
“Jennifer, a globetrotting journalist and professor, lives an enviable life with her boyfriend in New York City. That is, until her mother finds a story Jennifer wrote at age 13 depicting a “special” relationship with two adult coaches. Reading the yellowed pages of “The Tale,” Jennifer discovers the coded details she composed 40 years earlier are quite unlike her recollection.”
Directed by Jennifer Fox, this investigative thriller is sure to be an emotional and raw expose on the power imbalance between teacher and student. With Laura Dern in the leading role, expect an emotional rollercoaster for two hours.
Hearts Beat Loud
Why We’re Excited: Director Brett Haley is back at Sundance with Hearts Beat Loud, the father-daughter story that is sure to make our hearts burst with joy. Nick Offerman plays Frank, a single dad who wants to bond with his daughter, Sam (Kiersey Clemons) before she leaves for college. They decide to turn their weekly jam sesh into a real band and use their songwriting efforts to work through their feelings. Complete with catchy, heartfelt songs, Hearts Beat Loud will certainly be one to catch.
Ophelia
Why We’re Excited: A retelling of the one of the most popular Shakespeare plays? Told through a female perspective? Of course we’re in! But the film also has a chance to tell an empowering female story alongside a story we may think we already know. Plus, look at that cast.
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The Miseducation of Cameron Post
Why We’re Excited: Coming-of-age stories are always the best sort of films, but this one’s rooted in something that isn’t always talked about in the mainstream — conversion therapy centers. Certain tropes and story beats will be familiar, but with a darker edge to it that could result in meaningful social commentary.
Eighth Grade
Why We’re Excited: This will be Bo Burnham’s directorial debut and first feature length film for writing. “Eighth Grade” is sure to have the comedian’s signature comedy while proving whether Burnham works just as well behind the scenes as he does in front of them.
Skate Kitchen
Why We’re Excited: Writer/director Crystal Moselle apparently spent time with and worked closely with the girls of the skate crew, creating an authentic cinematic experience. Plus, an all-girl skate squad finding their way in a male dominated sport, while also journeying on their own individual self-discoveries? I’ll take more of that.
Sorry to Bother You
Why We’re Excited: See cast list above. Also, the synopsis gives the film a satiric feel to it, boarding on magical realism. Who doesn’t love alternate worlds which closely resemble us?
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