By Hans Pedersen, March 2016 Issue.
Naz and Maalik
Now available | Unrated | 86 minutes
Naz and Maalik are lovers as well as classmates who spend their days in Brooklyn visiting the local mosque and selling lottery tickets. But their lives get thrown into chaos when they are caught up in the war on terror and wind up under federal surveillance. Winner of the Jury Award for Best Actors in a dramatic U.S. feature at Outfest, this film explores conflicts between sexuality and religion, and tensions between the black community and police. It’s been praised as an authentic, slice-of-life portrait of life for gay Muslims in Brooklyn.
Portrait of a Serial Monogamist
Now available | Unrated | 86 minutes
In this Canadian rom-com for the middle-aged set, TV producer Elsie (Diane Flacks) has developed a knack for ending relationships. She breaks up with her long-term girlfriend, Robyn (Carolyn Taylor), much to the chagrin of her mom (Robin Duke). Everyone in her eclectic group of friends offers their two cents, especially when a beautiful DJ walks into her life. Now, Elsie must decide whether to pursue a new relationship or revive an old one. Directed and written by Christina Zeidler and John Mitchell, this sassy movie features stars from the Toronto comedy scene.
Nasty Baby
Now Available | R | 101 minutes
Out filmmaker Sebastián Silva directs and stars in this loosely structured story of a New York City couple, video artist Freddy (Silva) and his partner Mo (Tunde Adebimpe), who plan to have a child with help from their friend Polly (Kristen Wiig). But a low sperm count is only one of the challenges they face as an irascible neighbor begins harassing them. A meandering plot and a surprising shift in tone make this film, which won Best Feature at the Berlin Film Festival, unique and unconventional. Alia Shawkat (“Arrested Development”) and Mark Margolis (“Breaking Bad”) co-star.
Crazy About Tiffany’s
In theaters Feb. 19 | Unrated | 86 minutes
This new documentary sheds light on the dazzling legacy of “America’s first iconic brand,” one that went from a simple Manhattan jewelry store to a name that’s synonymous with luxury and prestige. This documentary by Matthew Miele (Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s), which, featuring actresses Jessica Biel and Jennifer Tilly, director Baz Luhrmann and writer Fran Lebowitz, may remind viewers why Marilyn Monroe crooned that “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Or not. But it does search for the reasons so many people value the Tiffany & Co. name and uncovers the allure and appeal of these precious gems.
