Capsule reviews for Nov. 23
Always Shine
The shallow and superficial nature of Hollywood is a broad satirical target, but this subversive thriller takes a fresh approach with its unsettling chronicle of the relationship between Anna (Mackenzie Davis) and Beth (Caitlin Fitzgerald), two fledgling actresses who spend a weekend in Big Sur trying to rekindle their friendship. Instead, the getaway is taken over by jealousy and hostility involving competitive jobs, marginal men and views on the misogynistic movie industry. Rather than a cynical rant, however, the film offers a character-based exploration of insecurity and gender politics that provides depth even amid some narrative gimmicks or some darker and more formulaic twists. (Not rated, 85 minutes).
The Eagle Huntress
There’s a self-awareness to the uplifting nature of the source material that drags down this crowd-pleasing documentary about Aisholpan, a 13-year-old girl from Kazakhstan who wants to break ground as the first female eagle hunter in a family legacy that spans several centuries. As she trains for the honor, the film explores such issues of breaking barriers and valuing tradition. If children have the patience for the deliberate pace, they will be rewarded with lessons about bridging cultural gaps and following your dreams. And even if some of the drama feels manufactured by rookie director Otto Bell, the result is still visually striking and emotionally powerful. (Rated G, 87 minutes).
Evolution
This atmospheric thriller from French director Lucile Hadzihalilovic (Innocence) can be admired more for its effort than its execution. It takes place in a remote island community in which the population consists entirely of young boys and older women and the disturbing events that bind them. Specifically, a youngster (Max Brebant) makes a discovery that causes him to wonder why all of his classmates must undergo so many medical procedures, then seeks the truth. There’s plenty of creepy imagery along the way, although the muddled and deliberately paced film maintains a frustrating emotional distance and leaves more questions than answers with regard to narrative intent. (Not rated, 81 minutes).
Magnus
It’s easy to admire the accomplishments of Magnus Carlsen, a Norwegian child prodigy who became an international chess champion by age 22. However, this documentary doesn’t offer much depth beyond some highlights surrounding his rise to prominence. The film traces Carlsen’s introduction to chess at an early age thanks to his analytical approach to numbers and patterns. And some archival footage and interviews reveal how he deals with both internal and external pressures, and how the game offered an outlet for his social awkwardness. Yet the result feels like a rook by not providing much insight into gifted children or dealing with sudden fame and celebrity. (Not rated, 78 minutes).
Seasons
This visually breathtaking nature documentary is more ambitious than expected, weaving together the sights and sounds of wild animals in their natural habitat, with a message about ecology and conservation through re-enactments of gradual human intrusion into the forest over several centuries. That lesson is handled with a subtle nudge, allowing viewers to better enjoy the incredible imagery captured by French directors Jacques Perrin and Jacques Cluzaud (Winged Migration). Although the second half is more uneven, the film uses technological wizardry to offer a remarkably intimate glimpse into the lives of creatures great and small, interrupted by only sparse narration, that conveys a timeless beauty. (Rated PG, 97 minutes).