Another Earth (***1/2 out of ****)

Another Earth is a mesmerizing film that touches upon deep emotional drama, scifi and the fear of the unknown. It's a stunning first feature by Make Cahill (the director) and a marvelous breakthrough performance by Brit Marling. She draws in the audience in the way a lead character should. Another Earth is another great movie this year.

To say that Rhoda (Brit Marling) may divide audiences on whether or no they like her may be a understatement. It's possible some will hate her and others will feel empathy. That's the making of a good character. Very early in the film Rhoda does something unforgivable. She's young and has just been accepted to MIT. She's had a few drinks (not necessarily drunk) and is driving home. Over the radio the broadcaster says that a new planet has been discovered and is visible to the naked eye as a blue star. Rhoda begins looking for it but is no longer paying attention to the road. She crashes into a another vehicle and kills the woman and child inside. The father/husband lands in a coma. Some time later the planet is much closer and appears to be a parallel earth. On this planet is another you. Maybe this Rhoda didn't hit that car that night? However our Rhoda looks to make up for what she's done to the man (William Mapother) she harmed in any way possible. Another Earth is engaging, greatly acted, contains original thought and provokes a response. It is truly a fine film.

***1/2 out ****