Melisa Bakir looks forward at the year ahead for independent film
There are countless films to look forward to in 2023, and even though we’re excited to see big blockbusters (here’s looking at you, Barbie!), we also want to shine a light on exciting new independent films, filled with BIFA recognised talent, which might have slipped under the radar.
The Whale
Darren Aronofsky’s highly anticipated drama features two-time BIFA-winner Samantha Morton and stars Brendan Fraser in his acclaimed comeback performance as a reclusive English teacher who has developed an eating disorder after the death of his partner. While teaching online lectures from home, he keeps his camera turned off at all costs. He’s also dealing with grief and depression while desperately trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter before it’s too late. The divided response to the film is usual with Aronofsky’s work. However, the one thing everyone seems to agree on is Brendan Fraser’s captivating performance, which we can’t wait to see on the big screen.
In cinemas 03 February.
Blue Jean
It’s rare to stumble upon a debut as subtle and powerful as Georgia Oakley’s Blue Jean, for which she took home the Best Debut Screenwriter award at BIFA 2022. The story, set during the Thatcher government’s introduction of Section 28, follows PE teacher Jean who is keeping her sexuality a secret from her colleagues and pupils. Her identity is on shaky ground after she is spotted by one of her students at a queer bar. The film develops into a detailed character study of Jean and the consequences of Section 28 for everyone, from closeted teens to struggling adults. The incredible performances by Rosy McEwen and co-star Kerrie Hayes were also awarded at last year’s BIFA ceremony with the Best Lead Performance and Supporting Performance awards.
In cinemas 10 February 2023.
BROKER
After a nearly five-year hiatus since the release of Hirokazu Koreeda’s BIFA-winning film Shoplifters, the writer/director is back with Broker, starring Song Kang-ho and Gang Dong-won as two men who run a laundry business together and have an unusual side hustle. The duo steals babies from the church baby box and sells them on the black market, until one day, a mother returns for her abandoned child and decides to join the two on a road trip to find the most suitable family for her child. Koreeda has established himself as one of cinema’s most empathetic storytellers, and we can already tell this one will be another emotional roller coaster.
In cinemas 24 February 2023.
CLOSE
Belgian writer/director Lukas Dhont’s sophomore feature Close was nominated at this year’s BIFA ceremony for the Best International Independent Film award, following the footsteps of his debut film Girl. Close is a coming-of-age tale about the intimate bond between 13-year-old Léo (Eden Dambrine) and Remi (Gustav De Waele), offering a subtle yet beautiful insight into the boys’ lives and friendship. However, their bond takes an unexpected toll after homophobic bullying from their classmates makes Léo pull away from Remi, who is left heartbroken. Don’t forget to bring your tissues to the cinema, because this one will be a tear-jerker.
In cinemas 03 March 2023.
Fashion Reimagined
In the past few years, there have been more discussions surrounding fast fashion and its unethical practices than ever before, which BIFA-nominated director Becky Hutner explores even further in her new documentary, Fashion Reimagined. The film follows Amy Powney, daughter of environmental activists, as she sets out to create a fashion collection that is ethical and sustainable at every level, exposing the difficulty in doing so and the price that comes with ethical fashion. A must-watch for understanding where our clothes come from and how the fashion industry must change.
In cinemas 03 March 2023.
RYE LANE
It’s about time South London gets the positive representation it deserves, and Rye Lane is here to do it justice. The romantic comedy-drama follows two heartbroken young strangers who meet at an art gallery in Peckham and spend the rest of the day walking around South London’s most beloved places together. While talking about heartbreak and their insecurities, the two start forming a special bond. The leads, David Jonsson and Vivian Oparah, steal the screen in this charming and original film that is a must-see for all Londoners and fans of romantic comedies.
In cinemas 17 March 2023.
Pearl
UK fans of A24’s cult hit X have eagerly awaited its prequel Pearl since the September 2022 US release. The film is already set out to be a cult classic, with many obsessing over BIFA-nominee Mia Goth’s performance as Pearl, an aspiring actress in 1918 Texas. Director Ti West played homage to 80s slasher films with X and is now putting a twist on the Golden Age of Hollywood. March couldn’t arrive any sooner.
In cinemas 17 March 2023.
Medusa Deluxe
Thomas Hardiman’s BIFA-winning debut Medusa Deluxe is a murder mystery set at a hairstyling competition that goes awry when one of the hairdressers is found dead. The highly stylised film does not only impress with the crazy hairstyles and costumes but also its brilliantly considered cinematography and direction. Just as you think the murder mystery genre can’t surprise us, it has resurrected itself with this fun, original take that doesn’t rely on violence or gore to keep its audience on edge, thanks to its brilliant script and incredible performances.
Release date TBC.
