Three to Watch

I keep thinking about these films, and encourage you to watch. Here are my three favorites from the past few months, two are Oscar nominees in multiple categories, deservedly!

FLEE - watch the trailer here. Animated docudrama based on the real life experiences of an Afghan refugee resettled in Denmark who is about to marry his Danish boyfriend. He is interviewed by a friend, and along the way unpacks some of the heavy baggage collected from his experience fleeing the mujahideen with his mother and siblings.2021 film, directed by Jonas Poher Rasmussen.

CODA - watch the trailer here. This is beautiful story telling, and connected with so many things I’m interested in: family systems, communication, the development of young adults and their vocation, access to resources, over functioning in a family or system, and culture. The scenery, music and performances are exquisite. Directed by Sian Heder.

DONUT KING - watch the trailer here. Maybe it’s because a college roommate was a refugee from Southeast Asia, or that I grew up in Southern California and recognized the donut shops, or the connection to current political/refugee crises -regardless, I loved this movie for it’s over-the-top Vegas scenes and sweet behind-the-donut-shop-counter depiction of immigrant family life. While it is not up for an Oscar, I really loved it. It’s an American dream story (made up of so many stories!) that needs to be told. Directed by Alice Gu.