Varied viewpoints expand our knowledge of others
“The Good Girls”: Alejandra Márquez Abella’s stylish examination of womanhood and class through the lens of a fashionable Mexican socialite — set as the country sank under the economic crisis of 1982 — features actress Ilse Salas in a remarkably restrained lead performance. An assured use of sound and dashing cinematography immerse us in the conflicted headspace of someone groomed for a privileged lifestyle as that identity crumbles around her. Pantaya
“In the Aisles”: Finding humanistic charm within the dullness of the commonplace, this workplace dramedy showcases Franz Rogowski and Sandra Hüller playing supermarket employees falling for each other. Director Thomas Stuber crafts a collection of sincere interactions between a group of coworkers and layers them with classical music and American tunes for an understatedly moving outcome. VOD
“Jirga”: Remorseful and resolute, an Australian soldier travels back to Afghanistan to beg forgiveness of those he hurt while serving there. Shot on location by filmmaker Benjamin Gilmour, the thoughtful drama highlights a breathtaking land and a rich culture often reduced to a barren war zone. Microsoft, Redbox, DirecTV
“Marona’s Fantastic Tale”: Anca Damian’s animated deep dive into the ruminations of a perspicacious dog stuns with mesmerizing design choices, an eclectic color palette and profound writing. Marona, as one owner names her, has sharp opinions on humans’ corrupted understanding of fulfillment and our incessant propensity for dissatisfaction. Theatrical release, early 2020, after November qualifying run
“This Is Not Berlin”: Loosely autobiographical, Hari Sama’s rousing vision follows a teenager navigating 1980s Mexico City’s underground music and art scene. Subversive ideas, drug consumption and sexual exploration in a fiercely homophobic and traditionalist society fuel this transformative coming-of-age movie. Kanopy, VOD
More, please: Films that confront outdated expressions of masculinity such as “The Art of Self-Defense” or that portray tender male friendships, like that in “The Last Black Man in San Francisco.”
Enough already: Dismissive attitudes toward animated features. Year-end lists rarely consider the dynamic medium on par with live-action or documentary projects, although animated storytelling often beats the others in depth and artistry.