When you’re not sure of something, you turn to an expert, right? Plumbing problem – call a plumber. Car problems – go to a mechanic. A film critic is another kind of expert. When movies open each Friday, many people turn to their local newspaper or website to see what the professionals had to say before deciding which new release they want to go see.
Recently, we lost Roger Ebert, probably one of the most well-known film critics. Roger gave a thumbs up or down to new releases week after week. Here in Phoenix we have our own Roger Ebert, The Arizona Republic’s Bill Goodykoontz. Bill’s five-star reviews are few and far between (rightfully so) but in the last two weeks Bill has given not one, but TWO films 5-stars! Both Before Midnight and Stories We Tell, independent films playing exclusively at Harkins Camelview, received the highest star rating.

Director of Cinematography Iris Ng (left) with Director Sarah Polley (right) in STORIES WE TELL.
Credit: Ken Woroner
Independent films don’t have the advertising dollars as the big summer blockbusters from major film studios so you might not have even heard of one of these films let alone know that you can see them in your own backyard! Just because you haven’t seen commercials for them while watching “The Bachelorette” doesn’t mean they aren’t worth checking out. In addition to the great reviews Bill gave both of these films, he also spoke with the director of Stories We Tell, Sarah Polley, who provided some additional insight into her very personal film.
When everyone else you know is flocking to the newest blockbuster, take a cue from Mr. Goodykoontz and go off the beaten path – go independent this summer.



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