Aardvark

Screened on Friday, Kitao Sakurai’s debut film is very unique work, mixing dark comedy and thriller. Aardvark (Aardvark review) centers on a blind and alcoholic middle-age man who decides to learn BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) and in the process get involved in a shady world. The film is intriguing, using long contemplative shots and distilling dark humor. It never plays the pity card regarding its central character's handicap, making him a strong giant, and toward the last third of the movie, Aardvark takes an unexpected turn which celebrates the originality and talent of this new filmmaker.