Night Moves (2013)

For the most part, it’s an understated and masterfully crafted thriller; with gorgeous nature shots and slick guitar-led score in tow, the pre-event procedural plays out each scene to slow-burn perfection, with the uneasy aftermath adding further sweaty tension. It’s the character writing that has a few missteps; namely, the film showing’s awkward attempt at explaining their motivations when the plan was already in place, and more significantly, the extreme climax of Josh’s arc in the third act.

7

First Cow (2019)

Anyone else tear up a bit at the banjo-backed scene of Cookie’s first glimpse of the cow through the trees? It’s that kind of film: so delicate and thoughtful in its cinematography, score, and edit that every detail of its earthy (pacific north)western setting and uniquely organic central relationship is infused with a powerful, patient beauty–except of course when both are threatened by cold colonialism. In hindsight, the prologue provides the perfect bittersweet commentary on this dynamic.

9