Welcome to the Best Of: Summer 2024 edition of Video Librarian, where we highlight the standout films that have graced our screens this season. From riveting documentaries to an unpredictable French arthouse trilogy, this season's standout films bring unique stories to the forefront. Each film on this list not only entertained but also left a lasting impression, earning our highest praise.
Green Planet Films
Naples and the Amalfi Coast: La Dolce Vita?
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
This documentary is a picturesque journey through one of Italy’s most iconic regions, but it doesn't shy away from the challenges faced by the locals behind the scenic beauty.
"This outstanding travel documentary belongs in any public library collection and may serve Italian language classrooms looking for listening materials." Read the full review.
Ozon's Transgressive Triple: Sitcom, Criminal Lovers, and Water Drops on Burning Rocks
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
This collection showcases the provocative genius of French filmmaker François Ozon, blending dark humor, surrealism, and intense human emotion.
"Ozon's Transgressive Triple would make for scintillating library film club screenings, especially for foreign and arthouse film fans, though the material is explicit and only for mature audiences." Read the full review.
EPF Media
The Elephants and the Grass
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
This powerful documentary explores the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, providing both a historical context and a deeply personal story. Filmmakers Brandon Gulish and Beau Rosario highlight the struggles of a mother and daughter, Yasmin and Shamira, as they flee their war-torn village to seek safety in a Ugandan refugee camp.
"The film's portrayal of the socio-political landscape and the human cost of conflict offers a vivid, real-world context for students studying contemporary global issues and international relations." Read the full review.
EPF Media
Long Distance Swimmer: Sara Mardini
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
This emotional documentary follows the journey of Sara Mardini, an Olympic-level swimmer turned refugee advocate. Her incredible story of resilience, survival, and activism unfolds, offering a powerful reflection on personal sacrifice and human rights.
"Overall, this film is a multifaceted resource that can enrich various areas of a library's collection, supporting both educational and public awareness efforts." Read the full review.
The Cinema Guild
The Tuba Thieves
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Blending fiction and documentary, The Tuba Thieves explores themes of sound and silence through the lens of thefts from a marching band. With its experimental structure and profound commentary on communication, it’s a refreshing and innovative addition to the season’s lineup.
"Using a mesmerizing interplay of images and environmental sound, O'Daniel crafts a sensorial journey that challenges conventional notions of storytelling. Blending documentary elements with fictionalized scenes and re-creations, the film immerses viewers in a kaleidoscope of experiences, inviting them to ponder the nature of listening and perception in the modern world." Read the full review.
Runaway Radio
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This documentary takes you behind the mic to tell the story of a rogue radio station that shook up the airwaves with its rebellious spirit. It’s a nostalgic yet electrifying homage to the power of independent media.
"Audiences will be entertained by fun and dynamic documentary, and impressed with its attention to detail, wealth of information, and obvious passion for its subject matter." Read the full review.
Good Docs
Finding Her Beat
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Drumming is at the heart of this inspiring documentary, which follows an all-women Taiko drumming group as they challenge stereotypes and find strength through music. It’s an empowering story of unity, rhythm, and breaking boundaries.
"This documentary from tandem directors Dawn Mikkelson and Keri Pickett hits the right notes in many areas: music, feminism/gender, Asian/ethnic heritage, as well as a recent chapter in the COVID saga. It is also often strikingly visual—plus has a great beat and you can dance to it." Read the full review.
Docuseek
The Illusion of Abundance
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This documentary tackles the urgent issue of environmental destruction caused by corporations and the efforts of indigenous activists to fight back. It’s a timely exploration of sustainability and justice, bringing important voices to the forefront.
"It’s hard to believe just how much content and information made it into this 58-minute-long film. I could have sworn I was sitting on my couch for twice that amount of time! It’s a rare thing for a film to do its job so beautifully and effectively: I can’t think of a single complaint!" Read the full review.