Seven Must-See Movies of October

Image courtesy of IFC Films

Certain Women (October 14th)

The lives of three very different women intersect in unexpected ways.

Director Kelly Reichardt’s films aren’t easily definable. Past dramas like Wendy and Lucy and Meek’s Cutoff hold small-scale premises that belie big results. Her work evokes feelings as well as exploring the deep thoughts and complexities of average women. Oftentimes the plots aren’t what sell the film, but the word of mouth from audiences moved by her work. Certain Women, its title evoking both specificity and a narrow viewpoint, brings together alumnus Michelle Williams with the likes of Laura Dern and Kristen Stewart. Response out of several film festivals has been positive, though Reichardt’s work isn’t necessarily meant for mass audiences. The slow, blase nature of her films might leave audiences cold, though it’s hard to deny the powerhouse cast. The cast have all worked in moody, evocative dramas, of which Reichardt is more than comfortable. Both Stewart and Williams are seeing massive success this year; Stewart with Olivier Assayas’ Personal Shopper – which received quite a mixed response at Cannes – and Williams with the possible Best Picture winner Manchester By the Sea. Either way this looks to give Reichardht another shot at defining herself as a seminal female filmmaker of today.

Next: Christine