Capsule reviews for May 29
Jake Horowitz and Sierra McCormick star in THE VAST OF NIGHT. (Photo: Amazon)
End of Sentence
Father and son head to Ireland to reconcile their estranged relationship in this contrived drama that benefits from strong performances. When he’s released from prison, Sean (Logan Lerman) wants no part of his dad, Frank (John Hawkes), despite their mutual grief over the recent death of Frank’s wife. She left a dying wish, however, to have them scatter her ashes together over an Irish lake. Sean reluctantly agrees to the trip, where common ground battles with lingering hostility as they sort through dirty laundry. Except for the intercontinental setting, their journey follows a familiar road map, as predictable sentimentality compromises the moments of genuine poignancy. (Not rated, 96 minutes).
On the Record
As this vital documentary illustrates, the #MeToo movement is not just for the white and privileged. It probes the extensive allegations of sexual misconduct, including rape, against hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons through interviews with former label executive Drew Dixon and other courageous victims. The powerful yet infuriating film not only recounts their decades-old confrontations in disturbing detail, but incisively examines a broader stigma stemming from uniquely deep-rooted misogyny in the black community that tends to shield the music industry’s rich and powerful. Hopefully these empowered women, with assistance from directors Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering (The Invisible War), can help spark legal and cultural change. (Not rated, 95 minutes).
The Vast of Night
Intentionally more amusing than frightening, this delightfully quirky throwback thriller affectionately channels “The Twilight Zone,” and is worthy of the comparison. It’s set in the 1950s in a New Mexico border town, where most of the locals are cheering on the basketball team while radio deejay Everett (Jake Horowitz) and switchboard operator Fay (Sierra McCormick) begin hearing strange noises. Set against the backdrop of Cold War paranoia, the teenagers’ investigation suggests the signals are coming “from the sky.” Subverting clichés, rookie director Andrew Patterson establishes the period atmosphere with some confident visual flourishes, and the screenplay builds suspense while preying upon fear of the unknown. (Rated PG-13, 89 minutes).