It’s Day 2 of the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival, and I can confidently say that there’s upward momentum. After knocking four films off of my Watchlist, I’ve continued to submerge myself in everything this festival has to offer. From the horror films that send chills down my spine to the ones that put a smile on my face, Day 2 has kept up in festival spirit and quality.
Here are my Day 2 reviews of the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival:
Next Exit | Director: Mali Elfman
Synopsis: In a world where ghosts are real and front-page news, a controversial new medical procedure allows people to peacefully kill themselves. In the midst of this breakthrough, two strangers travel cross country together to end their lives, only to unexpectedly find what they’ve been missing along the way.
Review: Mali Elfman’s Next Exit is intriguing to say the least. However, intrigue only gets you so far. Unfortunately, the story takes a while to get going while not saying anything new in the process. But luckily, this feature is beautifully acted and reliable in giving us that happy ending we deserve at a time like this.
God Save the Queens | Director: Jordan Danger
Official synopsis: It’s hard being a drag queen in Los Angeles, which is why therapy retreats are so important! The retreat featured in God Save the Queens includes Gigi (Jordan Michael Green) who is desperate to get their big break with their solo show by any means necessary and Marmalade (Kelly Mantle) who struggles with being a seasoned comedy queen in an industry where youth and beauty are the valued currency. Rounding out the therapy group are drag rock duo Rita (Laganja Estranja) and Stevie (Alaska Thunderfuck) who are feuding over their mutual ex when they’re invited to perform in a high-profile talent show. Little do any of them realize that fate might have brought them all together.
Review: Nothing’s more endearing than witnessing a story about a group of people living their best lives in their truths. Living life unapologetically is a bonus too. Director Jordan Danger gives audiences a glimpse into the lives of four drag queens who experience ups and downs. And it turns out that staying true to who they are is the best therapy they could ask for. This cast rocks!
Rounding | Director: Alex Thompson
Synopsis: When a motivated resident doctor transfers to a rural hospital for a fresh start, his demons follow him as he becomes consumed with the case of a young asthma patient, in Alex Thompson’s psychological horror follow up to his highly acclaimed Saint Frances.
Review: Alex Thompson bakes an intriguing feature with a good atmosphere that would pull audiences in from its mystery alone. However, the script doesn’t quite reach its potential as it settles into familiar territory. Furthermore, it leaves too much to be desired. Great performances from Namir Smallwood and Sidney Flanigan, though.
Our Father, The Devil | Director: Ellie Foumbi
Synopsis: Caretaker Marie finds her peaceful life in France upended by the arrival of a new priest who reminds her of her traumatic past. As he further endears himself to the residents and staff, Marie is forced to decide how best to deal with this reminder of her troubled past.
Review: Ellie Foumbi crafts an unwavering and confident story about trauma, guilt, and vengeance beautifully. This emotionally epic slow burn ventures off into a narrative about fighting past demons. But it’s compelling every step of the way. And Babetida Sadjo is outstanding. I cannot wait to see what first-time feature director Ellie Foumbi does next.
