With over 80% of this year's selections being the first or second films from their respective directors, you could say that most of the screenings at the 2015 LA Film Fest will be under the radar. And that’s a good thing. The identity of the film festival put on by Film Independent is coming into focus based on selections that value artistic discovery over commercial viability. You can still attend the world-premiere gala events, but take some time to explore the varied lineup that runs from June 10-18 at the LA Live Regal and other theaters.
1. Can You Dig This? The revolution will not be televised, but the seeds of revolution might be taking root in the garden. Directed by Delila Vallot, this debut documentary focuses on Ron Finley and his mission to bring urban gardening and access to healthy foods to South LA. The powerful and inspiring film follows four novice gardeners and their motivations for getting involved with the movement. June 16, 3:05pm (Regal 10)
2.Chuck Norris vs. Communism. If the title of this Romanian film hasn’t sold you already, maybe the plot will. Set in 1980s communist Romania, this poignant comedy revolves around the underground network that smuggled Hollywood films behind the Iron Curtain for mass consumption. The hilariously overdubbed action movies provide a glimpse of the Western world that most citizens were denied by an oppressive regime, and the implications are far-reaching. June 16, 8:20pm (Regal 9)
3.My Love, Don’t Cross That River. Mo-Young Jin’s documentary is the largest grossing Korean indie film of all time and centers around the playful 76-year marriage of Cho Byeong and KangKye-Yeol. Known in Korea as the “100-year-old lovebirds,” Jin shot this over 15 months to capture the fairytale existence they’ve created in the countryside and the realities of the corporeal world. June 13, 12:15pm (Regal 10) and June 17 at 3:30pm (Regal 14)
4. Too Late. The Muse section of programming features movies that draw inspiration from the many sides of Los Angeles, and Too Late is representative of the crime sleuth that this city does so well. Starring the talented John Hawkes as a private investigator tasked with tracking down a former acquaintance, the story takes the protagonist to various locales where the city itself provides a remarkable backdrop. June 11, 7:30pm (Bing Theater at LACMA) and June 17, 7:30pm (Regal 13)
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Want to build the excitement even more? Here 8 films you should definitely go see at the 2015 LA Film Fest and if you're heading to a screening downtown, here's where to eat and drink near L.A. Live.