The Toronto International Reel Asian Film Festival rolls into town November 11 – 15th, 2009. Check out a short interview with the Director of the Canadian film The Ache, Keith Lock above and the second part of my mini reviews below.
- White on Rice – USA (2009)
Fluffy and cute, White on Rice follows the antics of Jimmy, a naïve divorce in America living with his sister and sharing the bunkbed with his nephew. After meeting the niece of his brother-in-law, he convinces himself that she is perfect for him, unknowing that she has already fallen back in love with her ex-boyfriend, his co-worker. Albeit cute and starring a cast of rising Asian-American talent, Jimmy’s comedic in capabilities toe the line between being earnest and irritating. Popcorn fare at best. - The Ache – Canada (2009)
Inspired by sex columnist/ poet Louise Bak’s curious family story and mysteries of ancient “fox spirits”, The Ache is a quirky supernatural tale of how sex has the power to make people behave in very bizarre ways. Perhaps one of the more interesting films in the festival despite a rather imbalanced cast, it provokes in unexpected ways. While there is an overriding theme of sex, more subtle and important is everyone’s need and want for intimacy. Despite its shortcomings, it lingers in your mind long after it ends.
