Sky and I didn’t get into the swing of things until late in the festival last year, so this year we tried to get a jump on it. Last Thursday we decided to see whichever film looked best that night. The winner was I’m Gonna Explode, which was conveniently playing just a few minutes from our house.

Maru and Román, two teens in I'm Gonna Explode

We totally lucked out in the festival draw. The movie was fantastic: a great, modern teen love story set in Mexico. The characters were rich, the soundtrack was great, and I really enjoyed the pacing and camerawork. My favorite thing about the film was the depiction of the teens – they were saavy, hip, and weird. I feel that so many portrayals of non-Americans don’t show any individuality, they are so based on cultural stereotype. So that was refreshing.

I also enjoyed the depiction of a sexually awakening girl – she wanted to do it, but was freaked out about doing it, and didn’t want the guy to expect her to do it, even though they both kind of knew he did. It was all very layered and enjoyable to watch. Thumbs up!

Stellet Licht, or Silent Light

When I know about a movie – the theme, the actors, the setting – I create preconceptions whether I want them or not. It’s hard not to look up a movie I’m planning to see, to read about it, know what others thought, see some stills. When I’ve got seconds to decide whether I want to see a movie or not see a movie, any movie, use 2 hours of my time, I like it best. I can decide that yes, a film sounds perfect or that no, I’m feeling like a nap instead. The actual movie isn’t the point and I’m prepared for anything – a blank slate.

That’s what happened last night, and I said yes, and the movie was Silent Light. I want you to try to have a similar experience with this movie (because it was a really good experience) so I won’t tell you about it. If you’re dead curious you can look at the tags I used for this post. You need to go to this film because you feel like watching a movie for 2 hours, that’s the key. If you do this I’m pretty sure you’ll have a fantastic experience. If you don’t, just say no next time.

(Here are the showtimes for Northwest Film Forum screenings)