Blow the Man Down (Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy, 2019)

It's difficult to tell if the narrative ellipses in this tale of intrigue in a small Maine town are the result of arty exclusions or sloppy storytelling. But give it the full attention it deserves and the shape of the film comes to the fore. And if it doesn't, no matter; setting, atmosphere, and feel are the attractions here. You just want to curl up with some clam chowder and hot cider and bask in the milieu. Modest homes reflect precarious lives. Unfailing manners mask pain and violence.

Grade: A-minus