By Roger Costa
ZOO
Three 12 year-old embark on a dangerous journey to save a baby elephant, the last animal survivor from a cruel Nazi order to destroy all the creatures found in Belfast’s Zoo. Set in 1941 on the awake of war, it’s seen through the experiences of the zookeeper’s son, joining the excitement the entire community demonstrates with the arrival of the new animal, the lovable elephant. A few moments later, father is sent to war, and things drastically intensifies, as they suffer persecution, bombings and the senseless animal cruelty. An accomplished family film, director Colin McIvor impressively blends humor, drama and suspense, commenting on children’s emotions (each kid is dealing with abandon, abuse and bullying) and other humane topics: the supportive and strong community connection, the animal/man relationship, the longing of a mother for her soldier son. Based on real events, the actors are also superbly convincing in this touching and inspiring tale of compassion. (Samuel Goldwyn Films. 6/8. AMC Loews East Hanover.)
WESTWOOD
A courageous and intimate look on the busy life of polemic fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, her demanding career, activism, social disconnections and explosive temper. Told mostly through in-depth interviews with herself, director Lorna Tucker’s debut, brilliantly investigates the outspoken, forward, punk activist, giving insights on her affairs, success and professional dilemmas. Using footage of shows and backstage encounters, testimonies from her lover, her son and other working partners, as well as journalistic material, such as an infamous TV appearance, this Sundance hit is a stylish, underground and passionate portrait of a compulsive creative force. (Greenwich Entertainment. 6/8. IFC Center.)
EN EL SEPTIMO DIA
As the camera follows a young Mexican immigrant struggling to earn a living, Jim McKay’s indie drama paints a sensitive and observational modern canvas of contemporary Brooklyn, where many languages get connected. Our protagonist is doing everything possible to get a break from his job so he can play a decisive game, part of a community soccer tournament. A strong leader, he meets up with his fellow teammates, discusses strategies, and arranges for everyone to find a way of providing, either a job or someone who needs healing. Though it seems the most important moment in his life, he is also concerned about his devotion to Church-going, his bills and earnings, and his vacation plans. Director McKay creates a realistic atmosphere about struggling and surviving, extracting naturally powerful moments of human virtues and hope. (Cinema Guild. 6/8. IFC Center.)
FIVE SEASONS
Shot, edited and directed by art documentarian Thomas Piper, this is a visually dazzling experience depicting the devotion of renowned garden designer and author Piet Oudolf, through his unique work of reshaping natural life, displayed around the globe, including at NYC’s landmark HighLine. An engaging look at a man’s determination for perfection, the elegant colors of flowers and plants put together by Oudolf reveal the skills of an artist’s imaginative sensibility to re-arrange the structures of Nature, resulting in a festive celebration for the eyes. Lyrical and gorgeously filmed, it’s a meditation on the transformative beauty of the seasons, and how its moods reflect on us. (Argot Pictures. 6/13. IFC Center.)
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