JOLLYFACE

Nick and Blair seem like the perfect couple. Sure, there are moments when Blair's desire to be a well-meaning ally veers into "white savior" territory, like when she urges Nick to confront what she perceives as judgmental looks directed at them for being a biracial couple. Nick seems to be accustomed to these interactions; he plays along, and life moves on.

In his feature film debut, Justin Floyd crafts a home invasion horror film that uses familiar genre conventions to examine the ways racial identity can be manipulated and weaponized. As an exciting new voice in horror, the director is able to project an understanding of the contradictions, anxieties, and fears that exist within communities of color. Despite its complex themes, the movie never loses sight of its flow and its characters, allowing their emotional struggles to provide a balance to the escalating violent situations happening around them.

The true terror of JOLLYFACE lies not only in its menacing villain but in the systems and attitudes that allow these kinds of monsters to exist. With contemporary, pointed social commentary, the film delivers kills, shocks, and uncomfortable truths, leaving audiences with plenty to discuss. (RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ)