2022 marks a landmark of sorts as the four-day fest gets a chance to really put on the Ritz, given that this is the fest’s 10th anniversary. Yes, it is expensive to stay at the resort itself. But the staff, as well as the volunteers, make sure to allow audience members to be comfortably seated and they are treated well. Snacks are often provided free of charge, including kettle corn, Skittles, and even fortune cookies whose messages featured movie titles that played at fest over the years. There was a wine tasting table set up that allowed attendees in the resort’s main public space where two fireplaces keep things toasty and warm. All I know is that the rosé sample I sipped hit the spot.
But the prime attraction is, of course, the films, many of which will likely be part of the conversation during this year’s award season. The fest kicked off with a bang, with Aussie actress Cate Blanchett, who first won an Oscar for her supporting role in 2004’s “The Aviator” as actress Katharine Hepburn. She then received her first Best Actress award in 2013 for Woody Allen’s “Blue Jasmine”. Her newest film, “TÁR,” directed by Todd Field (“Little Children”), finds Blanchett playing Lydia, a conductor of great renown who has carried much hubris through her notable career. She is days away from recording the symphony that will elevate her legacy.
Like many festivals, a narrative feature and a documentary both earned Audience Awards. “Devotion” is based on a book by Adam Makos and the adaption of a wartime story that features a mixed-race friendship between a white and black pilot. Set in 1950, the year when the military became desegregated, the film tells the story of Jesse Brown (Jonathan Majors), who became the first Black aviator in Naval history. Alas, Jesse constantly faces hostility and racial prejudice. However, he gets support from his new wingman and fellow fighter pilot, Tom Hudner (Glen Powell). Basically, “Devotion” is part “Top Gun” and part “Brian’s Song,” and it definitely deserves a two-star salute in buddy-ship.