Published on April 3, 2026
Kelly Reichardt is regarded as one of the most intriguing American directors of the past three decades. Since her debut with ‘River of Grass’ in 1994, through to recent works like 2019’s ‘First Cow’ and 2022’s ‘Showing Up,’ she has carved a unique niche for herself in independent cinema. Unlike many contemporaries who have ventured into mainstream studio productions to varying degrees of success, Reichardt has steadfastly maintained her independent roots.
Her ninth feature, ‘The Mastermind,’ is quintessentially Reichardt. Loosely inspired -life events, it serves as a nod to classic low-level crime films. In the film, Josh O’Connor portrays James Blaine Mooney, an unemployed carpenter and father of two, married to Alana Haim’s character, Terri. The family often frequents a local art museum, but beneath the surface, JB is secretly plotting to rob the very place they visit.
JB, using his children as a ruse, scouts the gallery and even pilfers a figurine during a visit. Under the pretense of securing an architecture job, he borrows money from his parents, played and Bill Camp, to fund his heist plans with allies Eli Gelb and Cole Dorman. A critical moment arises when he realizes his frequent visits to the museum make him a recognizable face; thus, he entrusts the actual robbery to Larry and Guy. However, complications ensue when Javion Allen’s Ronnie Gibson replaces one of the original team members at the last minute.
Although the robbery seems successful initially, the ensuing media coverage brings the police to JB’s door. He briefly evades suspicion father’s name, but the fallout strains his marriage to Terri. The narrative poignantly reflects the classic adage that “crime doesn’t pay,” as JB juggles deception while attempting to stay ahead of law enforcement.
Reichardt unfolds the story at a deliberately paced tempo, reminiscent of low-key crime dramas like Ulu Grosbard’s ‘Straight Time’ and the works of Jean-Pierre Melville. O’Connor delivers a stellar performance as JB, embodying a privileged yet misguided man. The supporting cast—including Haim, Davis, Camp, Gelb, Dorman, and Allen—interacts seamlessly with him, enhancing the film’s emotional depth. Notable performances and Ga enrich the narrative, with moments of subtlety that reflect character relationships without needing dialogue.
One particular scene brilliantly showcases the art of understated acting, as O’Connor and Hoffman linger on a porch, their body language conveying more than words ever could. Moments like these highlight the significance of independent filmmakers like Reichardt, whose ability to tell profound stories shapes the landscape of modern cinema. ‘The Mastermind’ premiered in UK and Irish cinemas on October 24, 2025.
In a contrasting narrative, ‘I’m Still Here,’ directed , won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film and presents a moving portrayal of a real-life tragedy. Set against the backdrop of Brazil’s military dictatorship in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the film centers on the family of Marcelo Rubens Paiva, based on his memoir.
Fernanda Torres stars as Eunice Paiva, the mother facing the dual challenges of parenting and political activism, married to Congressman Rubens Paiva, played . As they navigate family life, concern grows for their eldest daughter, portrayed , who could attract unwanted attention from the regime. In an effort to protect her, Eunice sends her to London with friends, only for the family’s hopes to unravel as Rubens is arrested.
Salles deftly intertwines personal and political narratives, masterfully exploring the themes of injustice and the plight of Brazil’s disappeared individuals. Eunice emerges as a powerful figure, both as a loving mother and an activist advocating for indigenous rights, showing resilience amidst turmoil. Torres’s portrayal of Eunice captivates, building audience admiration for her strength.
The film’s pacing, handled expertly editor Alfonso Goncalves, complements Adrian Tejilo’s stunning cinematography, which evokes the grainy film aesthetics of the 1970s. As Salles celebrates 34 distinguished years in filmmaking, ‘I’m Still Here’ stands as one of his most remarkable works, reinforcing his status as a preeminent storyteller. This film was released in UK and Irish cinemas on February 21, 2025.
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