Sundance 2023

"Shortcomings" is an impressive directorial debut from Randall Park with a razor-sharp script from Adrian Tomine. Ben (Justin Min), an arthouse theater manager and insufferable culture snob, finally pushes his girlfriend Miko (Ally Maki) beyond her limits with his constant snarky criticisms of art (including her own and the art of her friends). Miko accepts an internship in New York, leaving Ben and his friend Alice (Sherry Cola) to examine where Ben has gone wrong--his emotional defects or "shortcomings." Though this has rom-com energy, it would be a disservice to the film if you went in expecting a rom-com. "Shortcomings" explores themes of representation, racial identity, and racial politics but manages to do so with an excellent sense of humor. I loved seeing Scott Seiss (Angry Retail Guy) — soon to be seen in “Cocaine Bear,” too. I will be crossing my fingers that this gets a distribution deal so more people can see it. Also, I need more Sonoya Mizuno in everything, please. 

— 3.5 / 5 ⭐