Independent Cinema

How would you feel if a bribe that you took ended in people's deaths?

"Brigend" is a relentlessly downbeat film, and lacking a dramatically satisfying conclusion, it's a film that can be admired for its execution, even as it keeps viewers at arm's length.

What I saw at the first half of this year's festival.

I like filmmakers. Not just actors. I like to deal with filmmakers because I like the way filmmakers think.

Second chances are possible for some people. But for politicians?

You know it’s great being quiet. I much prefer it (she laughs). It’s a very natural thing to just be quiet.

What would you do if you saw a violent act by a gang of 6 being perpetrated against a teenage girl?

Two arty thrillers from emerging directorial talents made their searing debuts at this year's festival.

Terrence Malik and Robert Redford's "The Seer" asks what impact do you have on the land, your community, your environment?

Sometimes you have to live voraciously because life is short and there isn't much time. "Bang! The Bert Berns Story," screened at SXSW, proves the point.