“Based on the novelistic nature of ‘Colossal Wreck,’ with all its rich philosophical meditations about ego and personal connections, Appignanesi’s growing filmography seems to be a cinematic vessel for meaningful change.”
“‘Benita’ is more of a cinematic explainer than a rich psychological study.”
“‘Beyond the Gaze’ effectively links the past and present timelines to accentuate the subject’s commitment to her craft and models.”
“‘When Comedy Went to School’ is a must-see for not only American Jews, but also for anyone who appreciates the art of stand-up comedy.”
“As politics continue to divide people via blinding shades of blue and red, Andrea Bocelli transcends above the madness by communicating what’s in his heart.”
“With ‘Below the Clouds,” Rosi makes it clear that history and the present interact every day.”
“Press play on ‘Hung Up on a Dream’ for the music, stay for the wild and interconnected industry stories that span seven decades.”
“As a cinematic epitaph for an extraordinary young woman, ‘Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk’ more than captures the spirit of Fatima Hassouna.”
“‘The Cat Man Eshete’ is more of a psychological character study — one worthy of repeat viewings, especially for immigrants — than a traditional documentary short about trauma and redemption.”
“Some minor continuity issues in ‘A Photographic Memory’ point to the first-time director’s lack of experience, yet they oddly work in favor of the established mood and tone via the (mostly) outstanding editing.”
“‘Knock Out Blonde’ isn’t the kind of documentary that wants to paint a complicated picture of its subject — which, paradoxically, would be the kind of boundary-pushing representation we need now.”
“‘Thank You Very Much’ separates itself from previous Kaufman documentaries in the way the director directly confronts the correlation between an artist’s childhood trauma and creative outlook as an adult.”
‘Court of Gold’ Soundtrack: A Vague Visages guide for every song in Jake Rogal’s Netflix series.
“Even though ‘Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story’ might leave fans wanting more, Klein’s documentary will presumably be the go-to Minnelli doc for years to come, based on the subject’s participation and an interview cast of high-profile names.”
“‘Tokyo Uber Blues’ is best when it works as a borderline psychodramatic character study…”
“There are moments of richness in ‘The Remarkable Life of Ibelin,’ but they only materialize when Ree allows his tale to be told from the only truly lived-in perspective.”
“‘Road Diary’ is intimate and illuminating, revealing the E Street Band’s brilliance and how they function like a well-oiled machine, with Springsteen as the engine that guides them.”
“With ‘Electric Lady Studios,’ McDermott artfully explores intriguing stories about hard-working music professionals who experienced first-hand what it was like to make a dream come true.”
“Miller’s documentary will likely bore viewers who are unfamiliar with Medeski Martin & Wood, but ‘Not Not Jazz’ is still a worthy tribute to what makes the band members such singular musicians.”
“The refreshing clarity of Peck’s style in ‘Ernest Cole: Lost and Found’ often feels like a drawback in the way that it disrupts the emotional weight of voice and visual form.”