Mutual Appreciation

One of the most exciting new figures on the American independent film scene, 28-year-old Andrew Bujalski is heralded as the defining voice of his generation for his painfully funny examinations of "passive-aggressive slacker mating rituals" (Village Voice). Mutual Appreciation follows Alan (Justin Rice), who has just moved to Brooklyn, as he tries to kick start his burgeoning career in rock and roll. Alan is subsequently distracted by a supportive and attractive radio DJ, several underpopulated parties, and, most dramatically, an attraction to his best friend's girlfriend. Frontman for the infectious pop/rock band Bishop Allen, Rice gives the character an anxious charisma that recalls such off-kilter European leading men as Jean-Pierre Leaud and Kings and Queen's Mathieu Amalric. (109 mins., 35mm)