By Riley Coven

​Beginning this Thursday, April 9 is the ninth annual Dallas International Film Festival. Running through April 19, this festival celebrates filmmakers around the world and the work they’ve put their blood, sweat, and tears into. While there are some well established directors and stars in the festival, there are also plenty of undiscovered talents waiting for their moment to shine. Here are some films from each category that I’d recommend checking out.

“Results:”

Danny, a recently divorced and wealthy man, is completely miserable with his life. He is the perfect example of the divide between money and happiness. One day at the gym he meets self-styled guru and owner, Trevor, as well as beautiful and enticing Kat, whose lives all become quickly intertwined. Starring Guy Pearce, Cobie Smulders, and Kevin Corrigan.

“Love and Mercy:”

This film chronicles of the life of Brian Wilson, lead singer of famed group The Beach Boys, as he struggles with mental health and substance abuse. Told between two periods of his life as a young man and a retired rock star, the film adeptly showcases the genius of his music and the pain behind it. Starring Paul Dano and John Cusack.

“Do You Dream in Color:”

A documentary about four blind youths living in today’s world. The film tells the story of these individuals following their dreams despite their disabilities. It shows that if you set your mind to something, nothing can hold you back. Directed by Abigail Fuller and Sarah Ivy.

“Divine Access:”

Jack Harriman has been around the world and seen everything twice. Aware of his suspicious nature, his friend, Bob McCorb, invites Jack to a cable access program. After dismantling the current host of the show, a reverend, Jack finds himself a spiritual celebrity and takes to the road to speak in cities across the country. Starring Billy Burke, Patrick Warburton, and Gary Cole.

“7 Chinese Brothers:”

Larry, a down on his luck convenience store worker, has nothing going for him, except maybe his boss, Lupe. With no commitments in life besides his penchant for consuming massive amounts of alcohol, things don’t look good for Larry. Time will tell is he’s able to get the girl, keep his bulldog happy, hang with his friend Major, and make his ill-tempered grandmother proud. Starring Jason Schwartzman, Stephen Root, and Olympia Dukakis.

“5 Flights Up:”

A film that takes place over the timespan of one weekend, 5 Flights Up tells the story of an aging couple trying to sell the apartment they’ve live in for more than 40 years. Starring Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton.