We’re in between Hollywood’s biggest night and another nostalgia take from Hollywood (they ain’t afraid of no ghosts) this week. Still, here we are with a new set of smaller and streaming features. This set of write-ups includes a Blumhouse horror flick, a medieval action movie, a hitman drama, a coming-of-age story, an LA comedy, a sci-fi drama, and a Farrelly brother comedy. The following features reviews for Imaginary, Damsel, Knox Goes Away, Uproar, First Time Female Director, The Animal Kingdom, and Ricky Stanicky.

UPROAR: 8 OUT OF 10

The Setup: Set in 1981 New Zealand, a 17-year-old (Julian Dennison) is forced to make some choices about his life and stand up for himself, his whānau, and his future.

Review: What a joy this film was. Uproar may have a familiar arc, but there’s little to scoff at when it’s done right. Dennison, who impressed myself and plenty of others thoroughly in Taika Waititi’s Hunt for the Wilderpeople, gets to show off even more range here as a teenager going through a true push and pull as far as where he fits in. Watching his progression, which involves figuring out his interests, sorting out his family life, and realizing what it means to be Māori at this time in New Zealand, provides a real emotional ride.

It is only made better by this supporting cast that includes Rhys Darby underplaying it as a thoughtful teacher, Minnie Driver as the mom, and James Rolleston (from Waititi’s Boy) as the older brother. Directors Paul Middleditch and Hamish Bennett provide many specific details that serve the story well and even manage to bring in more rugby than I can remember seeing at this level in a film. Made to find a balance between brighter moments and dramatic ones, Uproar is quite affecting for a coming-of-age story, and a real winner.

Where To Watch: Opening in theaters on March 15, 2024.

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