TIFF films are organized within sub-programs, each having a particular perspective. In some cases, inclusion in a program carries certain expectations about theme or tone.
A relatively new addition to TIFF is Vanguard. Vanguard films are promoted as being slightly off the mainstream, approaching the mayhem of a Midnight Madness (many of the films are programmed by the same person, Colin Geddes).
Friday I saw two films in the Vanguard program and they were very different.
In terms of presentation, an Asian film called "Interchange" would fit the parameters of the program most effectively. A mix of horror and film noir, it's about the investigation of a series of ritualistic murders that may have a connection to an antiques dealer. There is definitely a fabulist one to it but there's a lack of attention to the real world that takes the whole film down a couple of notches. Interesting visuals but it's let don bu The screenplay.
On the other hand, "Message from the King" is much more conservative but works much more effectively within the constraints of a revenge flick. A young South African man travels to LA to find his sister. His discovery that she was killed in a particularly gruesome manner sets him on a path to avenge her death. I wasn't sure that this fit within the Vanguard category, but it worked nonetheless.
No comments:
Post a Comment