OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Malin Ingrid Johansson’s DECK 5B is a stunning short that artfully examines the themes of longing and duty 

Malin Ingrid Johansson’s Deck 5B is a powerful exploration of the intricate balance between desire and responsibility, delivered through a poignant narrative that resonates deeply. Set against the backdrop of a ferry parking deck, the film introduces us to Mia (Alma Pöysti), a recently divorced mother embarking on a holiday with her son and her new love. What initially appears to be a lighthearted getaway … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Malin Ingrid Johansson’s DECK 5B is a stunning short that artfully examines the themes of longing and duty 

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Melissa Fisher’s BUSCANDO ALMA is a powerful and layered narrative

Melissa Fisher’s Buscando Alma is a deeply evocative short film that skillfully explores themes of identity, mental health, and familial bonds through the lens of magical realism. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Miami, the film tells the story of Cristina, a transgender Honduran-American woman, who is grappling with the emotional scars of being separated from her mother, Alma, when she was a small child. … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Melissa Fisher’s BUSCANDO ALMA is a powerful and layered narrative

BAFTA SPOTLIGHT: Mika Simmons’s BAFTA qualifying ‘MY WEEK WITH MAISY’ is a delightful blend of humor and heart, anchored by strong performances and a thoughtful, life-affirming message

Mika Simmons’ My Week with Maisy is a heartwarming and witty exploration of life, death, and the unexpected friendships that emerge from life’s most difficult moments. Starring the legendary Dame Joanna Lumley as the stoic and reserved Mrs. Foster, the film masterfully balances humor and poignancy as it tells the story of a woman beginning chemotherapy who finds herself unexpectedly bonded with Maisy, a vivacious … Continue reading BAFTA SPOTLIGHT: Mika Simmons’s BAFTA qualifying ‘MY WEEK WITH MAISY’ is a delightful blend of humor and heart, anchored by strong performances and a thoughtful, life-affirming message

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Interview with Kelly Yu director of the Oscar-qualifying ‘Endling’ of Indeed Rising Voices

A few years ago, I came across an incredible profile on the Atlantic by journalist Ed Yong about a man who had devoted his entire life to taking care of the last surviving tree snail in Oahu named George. It led me to learning about all the Endlings in our history (which is the term coined to the last survivor of a species whose death … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Interview with Kelly Yu director of the Oscar-qualifying ‘Endling’ of Indeed Rising Voices

OSCAR Spotlight: IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS, Julia Elihu and Ava Lalezarzadeh’s suspense-filled short is magnificent

Julia Elihu and Ava Lalezarzadeh’s In the Garden of Tulips has qualified to be considered for the 2025 Oscars. Sixteen-year-old Caroline (Ava Lalezarzadeh) cuts a forlorn figure next to her father (Iman Nazemzadeh) as they travel across the Iranian countryside of Birjand. There’s mystery surrounding the purpose of the journey, but there’s palpable tension in the air, and as they get closer to their destination, … Continue reading OSCAR Spotlight: IN THE GARDEN OF TULIPS, Julia Elihu and Ava Lalezarzadeh’s suspense-filled short is magnificent