Five Nights in Maine

This quietly shattering drama follows Sherwin—played with understated perfection by “Selma” star David Oyelowo—as he reels from the sudden death of his wife. A sense of responsibility sends him to Maine for a visit with his estranged, cancer-ridden mother-in-law (Dianne Wiest). The icy reception he receives hints at a fraught history between mother, daughter, and son-in-law that is gradually revealed during the visit. Expertly handled by writer/director Maris Curran, “Five Nights in Maine” is a nuanced and naturalistic study of the way we process grief, as well as the unspoken tension that seethes beneath the surface of related people when their connection is suddenly gone. Featuring a refreshing performance by Rosie Perez as Lucinda’s home nurse, this film is at once heartbreaking and beautifully full of life. In Person: Director Maris Curran.