2011 Program - American Independents

Bellflower follows two friends who spend their time building fire-breathing building muscle cars and other weapons of mass destruction, as they prepare for the impending global apocalypse.

An irreverent, wacky comedy which marks the directorial debut of Max Winkler (son of Henry). A loose narrative, witty dialogue and a will-she-or-won't-she dilemma for Uma Thurman.

A true story, based on the life of deaf UFC fighter Matt “The Hammer” Hamill, this inspiring film shows what it takes to be a champion, on and off the mat.

A moving and often darkly funny film about a big kid in a small town that doesn’t seem to have room for anyone who is different. That is, until he strikes up an unlikely friendship with his school's vice principal (John C. Reilly).

One of the most visually striking independent films of the decade, reminiscent of the work by the great Terrance Malick, Two Gates of Sleep is an American independent masterpiece.

The first English-language film from acclaimed Japanese director Shunji Iwai, this haunting portrait of melancholia and loneliness finds his unique style intact.

A timid teacher plots revenge against students who ridicule and abuse him in this pitch black comedy set in Texas.