One of the recent films that have made a splash in limited release is Marco Bellocchio’s *Kidnapped: The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara*. Set in mid-19th century Bologna, the film tells the true story of a six-year-old Jewish boy who was abducted by the Catholic Church in 1858. The boy, Edgardo, was taken to Rome and raised in a seminary under the watchful eye of the Pope himself, after a former housekeeper claimed to have secretly baptized him. The film delves into the heartbreaking ordeal faced by Edgardo’s family as they fought for his release, which became a cause celebre among Jewish communities worldwide. The story is intertwined with Italy’s violent unification, marking the end of Papal rule in the country. With a stellar cast including Leonardo Maltese and Fausto Russo Alesi, *Kidnapped* promises to be a riveting historical drama worth watching.
On a different note, *Solo* from Music Box Films offers a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre. Directed by Sophia Dupuis, this TIFF award-winning film centers around Simon, a rising star in Montreal’s drag scene. The narrative explores themes of family, love, and the complexities of human relationships as Simon navigates the vibrant world of drag performance. However, his world is shaken when he meets Oliver, whose dominant behavior threatens to derail their budding romance and collaborative partnership. With a poignant portrayal by Théodore Pellerin, *Solo* promises to be a deeply affecting film that captures the essence of personal growth and self-discovery.
For those in the mood for a blend of comedy, noir, and romance, Richard Linklater’s *Hit Man* starring Glen Powell might be the film to watch. The story follows Gary Johnson, a school teacher who moonlights as a hit man for the New Orleans police department. However, things take a humorous turn when he is hired by a woman named Madison to kill her abusive husband, leading to a series of unexpected events. With a quirky premise and a touch of romance, this film promises to entertain audiences with its offbeat storyline and unexpected twists. Powell’s portrayal of the nerdy hit man adds a layer of humor to the narrative, making *Hit Man* a unique cinematic experience.
Greenwich Entertainment’s *Queen Of The Deuce* offers a glimpse into the extraordinary life of Chelly Wilson, a bisexual Jewish grandmother who rose to prominence in the 1970s by running a porn cinema empire in New York City. Directed by Valerie Kontakos, the documentary traces Chelly’s journey from surviving the Holocaust to becoming a successful businesswoman on New York’s infamous 42nd Street. Through archival footage and interviews, *Queen Of The Deuce* sheds light on Chelly’s remarkable story of resilience and entrepreneurship in a male-dominated industry.
Margreth Olin’s *Songs of Earth* takes viewers on a visual journey through Norway’s natural beauty and the filmmaker’s 85-year-old father. Executive produced by Wim Wenders and Liv Ullman, this documentary reflects on the passage of generations and the impact of climate change on the environment. With breathtaking cinematography and a heartfelt narrative, *Songs of Earth* invites audiences to contemplate the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, offering a poignant meditation on the fragility of our planet.
The recent film releases provide a diverse range of storytelling, from historical dramas to coming-of-age narratives and thought-provoking documentaries. Each film offers a unique perspective on human experiences, relationships, and societal issues, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in captivating stories that resonate on a personal and emotional level. Whether you are drawn to tales of the past, contemporary struggles, or the beauty of nature, there is something for everyone in the latest lineup of films. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the magic of cinema unfold on the big screen.