6 INDIE FILMS YOU SHOULD SEE THIS SUMMER
1) The Emperor’s New Clothes – A beautifully conceived fantasy documenting what may have happened to Napoleon’s upon his exile to St. Helena in 1821. Besides Ian Holm’s enigmatic portrayal of Napoleon, an engrossing script and splendid cinematography give this gem its true luster.
Starring: Ian Holm, Iben Hjejle, Time McInnerny
Release Date: June 14th
2) Pumpkin – Ricci and Coughlan as sorority sisters, Harris as the mentally challenged Pumpkin who wins Ricci’s heart. A terrific ensemble and enough dark comedy to challenge the PC dictionary, Pumpkin is witty and endearing while never loosing its edge. Co-produced by Francis Ford Coppola.
Starring: Christina Ricci, Marisa Coughlan, Hank Harris, Brenda Blethyn
Release Date: June 28th
3) CQ – An inventive, seductive film directed by Roman Coppola set in 1969 Paris, detailing the production of a sci-film gone strangely awry. In a world where fantasy and reality are often confused, CQ, pulls off high concept with wonderous execution.
Starring: Jeremy Davies, Angela Lindvall, Jason Schwarztman, Dean Stockwell, Billy Zane
Release Date: May 24th
5) The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys – The feared phrase “coming of age” does apply to this story of four Catholic high school kids rebelling against authority, but there is so much more. Characterizing their struggle is some of the best animation Todd McFarlane has ever done, depicting the boys as super heros, their teachers the bad guys. This film is graphic, intense, and unsettling, but in the end, astounding.
Starring: Emile Hirsch, Kieran Culkin, Jodie Foster, Vincent D’Onofrio
Release Date: late June
6) Skins – Chris Eyre’s anticipated follow up to his surprisingly successful debut, Smoke Signals. Based on the novel by Adrian C. Lewis, Skins depicts the temptation, struggle, and undying perserverance of the American Indian in the most resolute fashion.
Starring: Graham Greene, Eric Schweig, Gary Farmer
Release Date: mid-June
