“Captures the American melting pot in its joy and pain.”—David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter
One of the most original, funny, and heartfelt films to be launched from this year’s Sundance Film Festival, Give Me Liberty demonstrates the absurdity of the support system for people who are medically dependent and how humor is necessary to overcome daily obstacles.
Medical transport driver Vic is late, but it’s not his fault. Roads are closed for a protest, and no one else can shuttle his Russian grandfather and émigré friends to a funeral. The new route uproots his scheduled clients, particularly Tracy (Lauren “Lolo” Spencer in a breakout performance), a vibrant young woman with ALS. As the day goes from hectic to off-the-rails, their collective ride becomes a hilarious, compassionate, and intersectional portrait of American dreams and disenchantment.
Shot in Milwaukee on a miniscule budget, the film went on to play the Cannes Film Festival and garnered a New York Times Critic’s Pick. 2019, U.S., DCP, in English and Russian with English subtitles, 111 minutes. Recommended for 16+.
Cinema+ Followed by Skype Q&A with producer and co-writer Alice Austen.