Benjamin

Seven years ago, young Benjamin Oliver wowed the critics and won awards for his first film, “Happy.” Now he is finally releasing his long overdue follow-up, “No Self” - an odd mix examining his inability to maintain relationships, coupled with Buddhist philosophy. The film’s incompatible elements reflect Benjamin perfectly. He’s an appealingly dysfunctional stew of insecurity, strange acquaintances, and bushels of boyish charm. Further complicating his creative and personal tailspin is Noah, a handsome young singer whom Benjamin is instantly smitten with. When “No Self” premieres, it is a critical disaster. Life may stubbornly insist on imitating art because it seems his affair with Noah won’t get rave reviews either unless he learns to truly open himself to success and love. Benjamin follows the ups and downs of this adorable pair as they try to build lives that nurture both art and the artist. Wistful and intelligent, Benjamin is a funny and bittersweet love song to everyone discovering their own lives are the greatest works of art they make. (Cleveland International Film Festival)