4 Films you need to see at the Hyland this week

By Evan Hamza, November 3, 2017

1. Andy Serkis’s directorial debut, Breathe
– The oft motion captured actor is stepping out of the ping pong ball-dotted leotard and stepping into the director’s chair with his first feature, “Breathe.”

The biographical drama which stars Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy centers around the life of Robin Cavendish, who was paralyzed by polio at the age of 28 but went on to become a celebrated advocate for the disabled. The film, which premiered at TIFF, may seem like an unusual turn for Serkis but the early buzz indicates that this is an inspiring story told by a deft storyteller.

If a true story about a polio survivor needed anymore heart, it is also interesting to consider that the film was produced by Jonathan Cavendish, the real life son of Robin Cavendish.

2. The 2017 Sundance Audience Choice Award Winner, “Dina”
– This documentary (or “Real-Life Romantic Comedy” as the filmmakers call it) follows an autistic woman named Dina as she prepares to wed her fianc?, Scott. The film takes a candid look at an unconventional relationship and is relentlessly honest and humanistic in its approach to presenting its subjects.

Driven by its lovable and courageous leads, the film boasts a great deal of heart and warmth.

3. Mark Felt: The Man Who Brought Down the White House
– Liam Neeson is moving on from kidnappers and going after politicians in his new film, “Mark Felt: The Man Who Brought Down the White House.”

Neeson stars in this biopic as FBI informant Mark Felt, the man better known by his alter ego “Deep Throat.” Felt helped shine on a light on the corruption of the Nixon regime but the film is also about his relationship with his wife Audrey (Diane Lane) and his hunt to find his missing daughter (Maika Monroe).

Considering the state of the world today, and the ongoing investigation into Trump’s inner circle, this film could not come at a more relevant time.

4. Loving Vincent is still playing – If you haven’t had a chance to see the world’s first fully painted film, don’t fret, “Loving Vincent” is still playing. The unique piece of art is garnering extreme praise in film circles and it’s one you definitely shouldn’t miss.