Andrew Jenks: Room 335

Clearly, Andrew Jenks is a talented young US filmmaker. Andrew Jenks: Room 335 initially appears to be an interesting vanity project (young man checks into a nursing home to learn something from the elderly) but actually turns out to be quite a beautiful film about growing old. Jenks himself, in a Q&A following the screening, said that it was a growing experience for himself, also. Roughly one third in, a frightening event occurs, and from this point on the film focuses on a number of specific characters (rather than the more broad scope prior) where it becomes quite strong and compassionate. Jenks doesn't mock these characters; the film shows affection towards them without ever becoming sappy. His film is honest, with wonderfully captured moments of joy and sadness - Jenks also has a warm screen presence. A joy to watch.

8.5 on the DaveScale.

(dir. Andrew Jenks, USA, 90 mins)