AFTER YANG

The opening shot of “After Yang” shows a happy family taking a group photo. Yet, as we progress through the moment, we realize that one of the kin is an A.I. assistant in human form. It’s the first hint that the film is set in a not-so-far-off reality and that breadcrumb begins a fascinating mystery. Things shift for the family when Yang, the artificial sibling, inexplicably shuts down. Instead of recycling the body for a new model, patriarch Jake (Colin Farrell) attempts to restore his memories and what he finds will ring true to anyone with a heartbeat. It’s a bold and transcendent experience from director Kogonada (“Columbus”), who is quickly growing into one of the best directors working today. A futuristic look at love and loss, “After Yang” is simply one of the best films from this year’s Sundance selection.

EMERGENCY

A wild night of partying takes a dark turn for college students Sean (RJ Cyler) and Kunle (Donald Elise Watkins), as their plans get interrupted by a passed out undergrad on their floor. Fearing social repercussions from the police, despite doing nothing wrong, the duo take matters into their own hands and what follows is more than just another take on 2007’s “Superbad.” There will be drinking, partying and wild innuendos, but the laughs give way to a sobering and socially-minded finale. The film was directed by Carey Williams (based on his short of the same name), and he has put a lively and unique spin on the party film.

LA GUERRA CIVIL

If you were a boxing fan in 1996, the only match worth talking about was between titans Julio Cesar Chavez and Oscar De La Hoya. Both men approached the fight with different cultural and social reputations and that energy split Mexican and Mexican-American fans down the middle. Some preferred the reigning champion Chavez, who was seen as a man of the people. Others preferred the L.A. born underdog De La Hoya, who seemingly had a lot to prove to himself and his community. Eva Longoria Baston takes a direct look at the politics and cultural aspects of this historic fight, interviewing sportscasters and other famous figures who remember that fateful night. The documentary is a gripping look back in time to a sport that will never be the same.

MASTER

The halls of a prestigious university hide a sinister force for freshman student Jasmine (Zoe Renee). Day by day she notices small signs of gender and racial tension within her dorm room until those markings become louder and possibly supernatural. Her pleadings with the Dean (Regina Hall) only make things worse, as both women become entangled in a twisted web of horror on campus. “Master” is a deftly told look at prestige and the prices paid to obtain it. While the film’s pace may be slow for some, those who stick with its story and social commentary will find plenty to talk about.

All photos courtesy of Sundance Institute