YOU’RE DATING A NARCISSIST – Review by Lynn Venhaus

When Marissa Tomei’s name is on a cast list, one usually anticipates an engaging performance, but You’re Dating a Narcissist is a rare misfire. Unfortunately, the contemporary romantic comedy may seem like it’s in her wheelhouse, but the female-forward film features a mixed bag of characters who lack depth, ultimately losing its way. In her feature film debut, co-writer and director Ann Marie Allison waffles between a commentary on rom-com tropes while at the same time attempting to stage one. It’s well-meaning, with good performers, and handsomely shot, but lacks staying power, like so many high-concept rom-coms that miss the intended bullseye.

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COAST – Review by Jennifer Green

This small indie film from directors Jessica Hester and Derek Schweickart does a better job at capturing the restlessness, the risks and the thrills of being a teenager than most teen-targeted studio films ever hope, or probably aim, to. Coast‘s realism is underscored by its setting, a central California coastal town with a heavily Hispanic farming community, a place where kids grow up looking toward a life working the fields if they don’t strive for something different – or leave.

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