Kim Hughes   Jan 19, 2012 0 Comments

Ari Graynor in a scene from ‘Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist,’ and soon to be seen in ‘For a Good Time, Call…’ courtesy the Canadian Press.
The Sundance Festival kicks off today in Park City, Utah and, typically, a number of films set to premiere are already creating big buzz in the webiverse and beyond.

What’s notable this year at Sundance - which still claims to be the premier showcase for independent film despite consistently attracting marquee names and big-budget films – is the sheer number of movies grabbing proverbial ink in advance of screening.

Given the hype, it’s a solid bet that hits at Sundance today will be mainstream megaplex fodder later in 2012.

We surveyed a bunch of most-anticipated lists – from the Hollywood Reporter to SPIN and others – and added our own two cents. Herewith, films debuting this month at Sundance that we can’t wait to see.

For a Good Time, Call…
The debut feature from Toronto-based director Jamie Travis – which boasts an incredible ensemble cast including Seth Rogen, Nia Vardalos, Mimi Rogers, Ari Graynor and Justin Long – tells the story of two women who launch a phone sex line. In the post-Bridesmaids universe, a raunchy female-dominated comedy holds all kinds of appeal.

West of Memphis
Director Amy Berg’s documentary on the West Memphis Three – three teens convicted of murder in an alleged Satanic plot whose case became a cause célèbre when dubious investigative details emerged – promises unprecedented access to the key players. Billed as “an examination of a failure of justice in Arkansas,” the film draws currency from the 3’s release from prison last year.

Celeste and Jesse Forever
Everybody loves SNL’s Andy Samberg and his big-screen turn in this so-called comedic “out-of-love story” as a guy who tries to maintain a friendship with his ex (Rashida Jones who also makes her screenwriting debut) as the pair pursue other romantic interests sound five kinds of charming.

Under African Skies
The documentary tells the story of the making of Graceland, Paul Simon’s landmark 1987 recording and the controversy (accusations of cultural tourism et al) that cropped up in its wake. Director Joe Berlinger (Metallica: Some Kind of Monster) travels with Simon back to South Africa 25 years after his first visit. Anyone who loves this album (and we are legion) is counting the days until this opens.

Bachelorette
Once again, the specter of Bridesmaids looms large. Kirsten Dunst, Isla Fisher and Lizzy Caplan star in this Will Ferrell-produced comedy about bridesmaids who must plan the bachelorette party of a girl they called Pig Face in high school. Hahahahaha! Count us in.

: 11:42 AM in Comedy, Documentary, Drama, Film
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