Director: Janicza Bravo

Cinematography: Jason McCormick

Producers: David Bernon, Paul Bernon, Houston King, Sam Slater, Han West         

Writers: Janicza Bravo, Brett Gelman

Starring: Brett Gelman, Judy Greer, Michael Cera, Nia Long, Shiri Appleby, Fred Melamed

"Lemon", quite frankly, blew everyone away as the opening film of the IFFR. The last thing that the audience expected was for a film to be as quirky as possible. The film basically revolves around Isaac (Brett Gelman), and it prides itself on having absurd humor which could potentially count for an uncomfortable viewing for some. The first scene of the film is shot in a steady rotation, revolving around Isaac's apartment. Isaac is an actor by profession, and he is working just to make ends meet. 

He is currently choreographing a version of "The Seagull", where he treats the lead actress as an outcast and the lead actor as a genius. Isaac from the get-go seems to be either losing his mind or acts as a misogynist, but the audience is inclined to think the former given the circumstances. Amidst the seemingly random occurrences of the film lies a pattern of absurdity which one can grasp. Brett Gelman is fantastic in his portrayal of Isaac. Janicza Bravo once again proves after "Gregory Go Boom" that she has space in her cabinet for some more trophies with her brilliant absurdist direction of the film. The IFFR took a huge risk putting this film on the opening, as the audience of film festivals consist mostly of filmmakers, critics and enthusiasts. However, it paid off as it was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated.