5 Movies to See at this year’s Tribeca Festival
Adult Best Friends explores a classic dilemma faced by millennials: how to handle it when your childhood best friend seems to outpace you in life’s key moments. Nothing puts a friendship to the test quite like one friend getting engaged. For Katie (Katie Corwin), who has the ring on her finger, the worry that her best friend Delaney (Delaney Buffett, who also directs) might feel left out triggers a last-minute girls’ trip to rekindle their bond. The film features Zachary Quinto, Mason Gooding, Cazzie David, Casey Wilson, and Alexander Hodge in a cringe comedy about embarking on one final tween-inspired adventure before confronting the ultimate milestone of adulthood: marriage. Real-life best friends and co-leads Corwin and Buffett also co-wrote the script, bringing an authentic touch to the story of navigating friendship amidst life’s significant changes.
Brats Anyone who grew up watching movies in the 1980s likely recalls the moment they first heard the term “Brat Pack,” referring to a group of rising young actors like Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy, Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, and Andrew McCarthy. Andrew McCarthy vividly remembers the term’s origin when journalist David Blum coined it in a New York magazine article. He also recalls the negative impact the label had on his career and those of his peers. To come to terms with this label, McCarthy embarks on a journey to interview his former co-stars and Brat Pack-adjacent figures like Lea Thompson and “Pretty in Pink” director Howard Deutch. The resulting documentary is a blend of humor, emotion, and revelation.
Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes Elizabeth Taylor lived a life constantly under scrutiny, foreshadowing today’s tabloid-driven celebrity culture where personal tragedies often eclipse artistic achievements. Nanette Burstein’s documentary, “Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes,” offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the Oscar-winning actress’s life. The film takes viewers from Taylor’s early years to her tumultuous 1970s with Richard Burton, whom she married twice after meeting on the set of “Cleopatra”—their relationship began as Burton battled a hangover from heavy drinking. Utilizing materials from the Elizabeth Taylor Archive, this documentary is a must-see for old Hollywood enthusiasts. It features audio recordings of Taylor herself, sharing candid moments with her close friend Roddy McDowall, whom she met as a child on the set of the 1943 film “Lassie Come Home.” Through these personal recordings, Taylor’s own voice guides the narrative, providing a unique perspective on her life and career.
Federer: Twelve Final Days When tennis legend Roger Federer decided to document the final event of his illustrious career, he hired Asif Kapadia, the acclaimed director known for profiling top athletes in films like “Senna,” “Ronaldo,” and “Diego Maradona.” In “Federer: Twelve Final Days,” Kapadia follows Federer as he announces his retirement and stages a new tournament, reuniting with his greatest rivals. This documentary doesn’t unveil new facets of Federer’s personality but charmingly reaffirms that he lives with the same grace he displayed on the court.
The French Italian Stand-up comedian Catherine Cohen has quickly become a standout performer, blending a unique style reminiscent of Megan Stalter and Lena Dunham. It’s no surprise that her big break comes with Rachel Wolther’s “Girls”-esque comedy “The French Italian.” In this film, Cohen stars alongside “SNL” alum Aristotle Athari as quirky roommates who leave their Brooklyn brownstone for an upstate retreat. Their mission? To craft an off-Broadway play hilariously centered around their loathing for a former neighbor addicted to off-tune karaoke. Cohen’s comedic timing and charismatic presence shine through in this role, making “The French Italian” a delightful watch. Her chemistry with Athari adds an extra layer of charm to the film, turning their offbeat adventure into a captivating narrative. Wolther’s direction captures the essence of millennial humor and urban eccentricity, creating a relatable and entertaining experience. This film is a testament to Cohen’s rising star power and a must-see for fans of sharp, character-driven comedies.
Photos per Tribeca and HBO
