Animatrix, The Sea, Dirt, and Yossi & Jagger

Animatrix, The Sea, Dirt, and Yossi & Jagger: An anime approach to The Matrix; a magnificent Icelandic family saga from the guy who wrote and directed 101 Reykjavik; an interesting look at the lives of an undocumented Salvadoran family living and working in New York City; and the story of a love affair between two officers in the Israeli army. (Seen May 31, 2003, at SIFF.)

Hukkle, American Splendor, Sudeste, and The Three Marias

Hukkle, American Splendor, Sudeste, and The Three Marias: A wordless "magic picture" set in rural Hungary; an innovative biography of comics writer (and star) Harvey Pekar that combines actors and the real people they're portraying; a slow-moving Argentine story set on a river; and a stylish but empty Brazilian revenge fantasy. (Seen May 30, 2003, at SIFF.)