As a guy it pains me sometimes to use adjectives such as cute, charming, delightful. But these are entirely appropriate for the latest Cinequest screener I watched called Raspberry Magic. Of a strong group of films so far, it may be the best yet. The story is centered around a...

Here's one that will pull on the heart strings. The Tijuana Project is a refreshing change from the incessant drug battle-charged headlines we see coming out of Mexico, especially border towns such as Tijuana, just 30 minutes South of San Diego. I admit we sent this one to the bottom...

First, a quick recap. We're counting down to the Cinequest Film Festival 20, now opening in 15 days on Tuesday, February 23 with a screening of Dagur Kári's The Good Heart starring Brian Cox and Paul Dano. At the media launch party we received 10 screeners. We screen them. Write...

Here's a well-made film from Brazil. Called Paulista (Quanto Dura o Amor), the second Cinequest screener that Loni and I have watched, it follows the ups and downs of three relationships. It recently played at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Sex, and sexual identity play a big role and...

Okay, so here we go, let the flood of film begin. Exciting times. We're 20 days away from the opening night of the Cinequest 20 film festival, and based on the amount of social media interaction, news, and announcements, it's going to be a great one. Last week we...

Who knew a library could be grounds for such wicked office politics? It all starts when a fresh-out-of-rehab goth slacker Nikki Reynolds (Betsy Brandt) takes a job at the local library. Strict, by-the-book head librarian Betty Bonhauser (Elisa Bocanegra) is quick to remind everyone using a flip chart of her family's...

We've been working our way through the catalog of Cinequest DVD releases leading up to the 20th anniversary for the festival in February 2010. And one of the thrills of watching indie films like this terrific gem, Batad, is that you can really feel every ounce of passion that went...

'The Time Traveller's Wife' is another movie amongst several that deals with the theme of true love transcending time. Others in this category include 'Benjamin Button' and the latest vampire craze. As Hollywood tries to grapple with the true essence of love in a world where technology is making more...

In the mood for something different? How about an eccentric Swiss black comedy? Yes. I know what you're thinking. Not another eccentric Swiss black comedy. Beresina is an intriguing, quirky musical that played at Cannes and Cinequest, and is now available as a Cinequest release. It is regarded as one...

Ever since the movie Julie & Julia arrived in cinemas, I've been meaning to go see it. The wonderful write up by Pat Reardon on her experiences with making Beef Bourguignon only tempted me further. Alas, between the theater season being in full swing, a pile of Cinequest movies...