The 32nd Atlantic Film Festival starts on Sept. 13 and continues until Sept. 20. This preview gives our readers an idea of which films to keep an eye open for as they take in all of the different events during the festival.
The Disappeared - Halifax filmmaker/writer Shandi Mitchell’s debut film is a story of loss and survival when six men are lost at sea. When their fishing boat sinks in the middle of the north Atlantic these men do what they can to survive with little food or fresh water. The Disappeared looks to be an intense drama as these sailors try to beat the odds and make it home with what little they have.
Showtimes: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, Oxford Theatre and 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, Oxford Theatre.
Blackbird - Another Halifax director debut, Jason Buxton tells audiences the story of Sean, a teenager who gets in trouble when his ramblings of a columbine-esque shooting plan are found. Sean wasn’t actually planning to commit the act, but he gets thrown in jail and his life is turned upside down. A reflection on the troubled youth of today and the correctional system.
Showtimes: 8:10 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 16, Park Lane Theatre.
Holy Motors by French filmmaker Léos Carax is a cerebral drama of a man’s rampage through Paris inside a stretch limo. The film encompasses different styles and motifs while being both funny and shocking. ‘Holy Motors’ looks to push the boundaries of film and filmmaking.
Showtimes: 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, Oxford Theatre
Sleepwalk With Me is based on American comedian Mike Birbiglia’s autobiographical play and novel. It delves into the world of a stand-up comic who starts sleepwalking after he is pressured into get married to his long-time girlfriend after his sister gets married. Charming, whimsical and down-to-earth, Sleepwalk With Me will have you laughing and crying at the same time.
Showtimes: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, Park Lane Theatre
A Royal Affair, the closing film of the festival is a much anticipated period drama by Nikolaj Arcel, which has already garnered lots of buzz at the Berlin Film Festival. It tells the true story of Johann Struensee who attempts to cure the Danish mad King Christian VII’s instability, but also falls in love with his ignored wife, the Queen. History, big dresses and big makeup, this parade of pomp and circumstance is sure to please fans of the genre.
Showtimes: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 20, Park Lane Theatre
