Inez & Doug & Kira

I was deeply pulled into this story from the stupendous acting performances, perfect casting, life-like writing, beautiful cinematography, great editing and emotional score. The character and relationship development and acting was so strong that I cared about the characters and could feel what they felt. As a result I had to see how the story of these 3 unfolded and was invested from beginning to end. It was well worth the investment. Inez & Doug & Kira is a truly great film that I highly recommend to anyone interested in a moving psychological drama. This one will stay with you after you watch it.

This is a film you'll remember. The story is mainly told through two timelines focusing on Doug and Inez, and Inez's sister, Kira. Inez and Kira are as Inez puts it, "Blueish" (Black and Jewish). They both fall in love with Doug, but that's about as far as their similitude goes. It's Doug who serves as our (the audience's) conduit into the enigmatic persona that is Inez. (played brilliantly by Tawny Cypress) There's nothing lighthearted about the subject matter, but it's presented in such an intimate way through a well- executed (and twisting!) plot, that in wake of the film's tragedy there's an unexpected catharsis.

"Inez & Doug & Kira" in some ways is a modern-day version of "Jules and Jim", except here it's two women and one man, with the difficult subjects of alcoholism and bipolar mental illness at the forefront. It's a story that stays with you, told via two timelines focusing on Doug and Inez, and Inez's sister, Kira. They both fall in love with Doug. Inez is an enigma and a mystery, a character we see via the others she comes into contact with (brilliantly portrayed by actress Tawny Cypress). The movie does not pull any punches and this is difficult subject matter, but it's presented in such an honest and intimate way that I found myself admiring its journey. Beautiful cinematography throughout, and a triumph for indie filmmaking.

There are some films that I need to watch more than once, many movies I screen several times. This story is powerful and sometimes raw. The acting is top notch (one of the reason I watched it twice.) "Inez & Doug & KIra" has the feel of a foreign film -- it is not a slick Hollywood production, but something that you would see in an "art house". It is one of those film that stays with you after the credits have stopped rolling; one that you feel the need to dicuss with other people. Although, I hadn't heard of the actors before, they all delivered strong performnaces and this movie showcases their talents.

I loved this film!! The characters are so engaging and beautifully written and acted. The story draws you in and you try to understand the mystery of what happened. Obviously won't write any spoilers, but the end is brilliant. The film keeps you engaged and really makes you think.